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

The statement added: "Food safety is something we will never compromise on, and we remain committed to doing the right thing."

From BBC

Consider those sacrifices a compromise in the name of self-preservation, he said.

From Salon

I want to recall what’s been washed away by the pull of adulthood, what age and responsibility demand that we compromise, that we let go of.

From Los Angeles Times

Kiriana O’Connell, who is also Māori, said that the current treaty principles were already a compromise for her people, and she would not support a "rewrite".

From BBC

Even in the best of circumstances, congressional legislation takes time, effort and compromise.

From BBC

Related Words

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