compromise

[kom-pruh-mahyz]

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.

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

/ 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

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of compromise¹

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of compromise¹

C15: from Old French compromis, from Latin comprōmissum mutual agreement to accept the decision of an arbiter, from comprōmittere, from prōmittere to promise

Example Sentences

"The conditions were not fulfilled for me to carry on as prime minister," Lecornu said on Monday morning, and criticised the unwillingness by political parties to reach compromises.

From BBC

"We have told them that Australia is our security partner of choice and they understand our alliances here... Other aspects of our relations have never been compromised," he said.

From BBC

Hamby said he believes solutions lie in a compromise between the upper and lower states, but that will require all of them to stop clinging to “their most aggressive and rigid dreamland legal positions.”

From Los Angeles Times

But the compromises that scaled it back are the reason the bill passed, they said.

From Los Angeles Times

But in imposing curfews and dismissing UN casualty reports, the government could be signalling that it may double down on repression rather than compromise.

From BBC

Related Words

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