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

“As we tried to cut songs or trim characters, those decisions began to feel like fatal compromises,” Chu wrote in an initial statement.

Read more on Salon

However, there will be relief among countries meeting here that a compromise has been reached as the lack of agreement on the venue was becoming an embarrassment for the UN.

Read more on BBC

Although the Social Security Administration said in September that an internal review found that its database remained secure and was not hacked, leaked or compromised, an external or independent review has yet to be done.

Read more on MarketWatch

Nile, though, is unencumbered by empathy, guilt, or the urge for compromise, a mile-long bunting of red flags spooled into one cashmere-clad creep.

Read more on Salon

The issue has become so sensitive that COP30's Brazilian presidency has elevated it from technical negotiations to a higher political level, where ministers are now trying to hash out a compromise.

Read more on Barron's

Related Words

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