noun
- 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.
verb (used with object), com·pro·mised, com·pro·mis·ing.
- 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.
verb (used without object), com·pro·mised, com·pro·mis·ing.
- 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.
noun
- 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
verb
- to settle (a dispute) by making concessions
- (tr) to expose (a person or persons) to disrepute
- (tr) to prejudice unfavourably; weakenhis behaviour compromised his chances
- (tr) obsolete to pledge mutually
n.early 15c., “a joint promise to abide by an arbiter’s decision,” from Middle French compromis (13c.), from Latin compromissus, past participle of compromittere “to make a mutual promise” (to abide by the arbiter’s decision), from com- “together” (see com-) + promittere (see promise). The main modern sense of “a coming to terms” is from extension to the settlement itself (late 15c.). v.mid-15c., from compromise (n.). Related: Compromised; compromising.