compromise
a settlement of differences by mutual concessions; an agreement reached by adjustment of conflicting or opposing claims, principles, etc., by reciprocal modification of demands.
the result of such a settlement.
something intermediate between different things: The split-level is a compromise between a ranch house and a multistoried house.
an endangering, especially of reputation; exposure to danger, suspicion, etc.: a compromise of one's integrity.
to settle by a compromise.
to expose or make vulnerable to danger, suspicion, scandal, etc.; jeopardize: a military oversight that compromised the nation's defenses.
Obsolete.
to bind by bargain or agreement.
to bring to terms.
to make a compromise or compromises: The conflicting parties agreed to compromise.
to make a dishonorable or shameful concession: He is too honorable to compromise with his principles.
Origin of compromise
1Other words from compromise
- com·pro·mis·er, noun
- com·pro·mis·ing·ly, adverb
- com·prom·is·sa·ry [kom-prom-uh-ser-ee], /kɒmˈprɒm əˌsɛr i/, adjective
- non·com·pro·mis·ing, adjective
- pro·com·pro·mise, adjective
- qua·si-com·pro·mis·ing, adjective
- qua·si-com·pro·mis·ing·ly, adverb
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
British Dictionary definitions for compromise
/ (ˈkɒmprəˌmaɪz) /
settlement of a dispute by concessions on both or all sides
the terms of such a settlement
something midway between two or more different things
an exposure of one's good name, reputation, etc, to injury
to settle (a dispute) by making concessions
(tr) to expose (a person or persons) to disrepute
(tr) to prejudice unfavourably; weaken: his behaviour compromised his chances
(tr) obsolete to pledge mutually
Origin of compromise
1Derived forms of compromise
- compromiser, noun
- compromisingly, adverb
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
Browse