compromise

American  

[kom-pruh-mahyz] / ˈkɒm prəˌmaɪz /

noun

1. a settlement of differences by mutual concessions; an agreement reached by adjustment of conflicting or opposing claims, principles, etc., by reciprocal modification of demands.

2. the result of such a settlement.

3. something intermediate between different things.

   The split-level is a compromise between a ranch house and a multistoried house.

4. an endangering, especially of reputation; exposure to danger, suspicion, etc..

   a compromise of one's integrity.

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verb (used with object)

compromised, compromising

1. to settle by a compromise.

2. to expose or make vulnerable to danger, suspicion, scandal, etc.; jeopardize.

   a military oversight that compromised the nation's defenses.

3. Obsolete.

   1. to bind by bargain or agreement.

   2. to bring to terms.

verb (used without object)

compromised, compromising

1. to make a compromise or compromises.

   The conflicting parties agreed to compromise.

2. to make a dishonorable or shameful concession.

   He is too honorable to compromise with his principles.

compromise British  

/ ˈkɒmprəˌmaɪz /

noun

1. settlement of a dispute by concessions on both or all sides

2. the terms of such a settlement

3. something midway between two or more different things

4. an exposure of one's good name, reputation, etc, to injury

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verb

1. to settle (a dispute) by making concessions

2. (tr) to expose (a person or persons) to disrepute

3. (tr) to prejudice unfavourably; weaken

   his behaviour compromised his chances

4. obsolete (tr) to pledge mutually

Other Word Forms

• compromiser noun
• compromisingly adverb
• compromissary adjective
• noncompromising adjective
• procompromise adjective
• quasi-compromising adjective
• quasi-compromisingly adverb

Etymology

Origin of compromise

First recorded in 1400–50; late Middle English, from Anglo-French compromisse, Middle French compromis, from Latin comprōmissum; equivalent to com- + promise

Example Sentences

But territory remains a sticking point, and the warring sides have not yet shown willingness for compromise.

From Barron's

"France finally has a budget," Lecornu wrote on X after the vote, hailing a "parliamentary compromise" which "curbs public spending" and "does not hike taxes for households and businesses".

From Barron's

In an attempt to find a compromise between the crypto and banking industries, White House officials, along with executives from Coinbase, crypto, and bank trade associations, held a meeting this afternoon.

From Barron's

Now, sellers listing their homes “genuinely want to sell,” and they’re willing to compromise, he added, which is a “healthy development.”

From MarketWatch

If a compromise in Congress is reached, the employment report is likely to be published no later than next week.

From MarketWatch

Related Words

• accommodation
• accord
• adjustment
• arrangement
• bargain
• concession
• deal
• pact
• settlement
• understanding