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)

, com·pro·mised, com·pro·mis·ing.

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)

, com·pro·mised, com·pro·mis·ing.

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

Derived Forms

• ˈcomproˌmiser, noun
• ˈcomproˌmisingly, adverb

Other Words From

• compro·miser noun
• compro·mising·ly adverb
• com·prom·is·sa·ry [kom-, prom, -, uh, -ser-ee], 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

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

Spoken like a woman who knows what she wants in life and isn’t about to compromise.

From Los Angeles Times

“In order to be valid, any alternative considered must meet this requirement unless the states agree to a compromise otherwise.”

From Los Angeles Times

The Scottish Conservatives have described the early release of prisoners as a betrayal of victims and said it compromises community safety.

From BBC

In patients with a compromised or suppressed immune system, such as organ transplant recipients and people infected with HIV, HEV can become chronic.

From Science Daily

The resolution refers to “a documented increase in anti-immigrant and anti-LGBTQ+ sentiment in the United States,” stating that “these narratives divide communities, elevate risk factors, and compromise mental health and school engagement.”

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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