noun
- a settlement in which each side gives up some demands or makes concessions
- an adjustment of opposing principles, systems, etc. by modifying some aspects of each
- the result of such an adjustment
- something midway between two other things in quality, effect, etc.
- exposure, as of one's reputation, to danger, suspicion, or disrepute
- a weakening, as of one's principles
Origin:
ME & OFr compromis < LL compromissum, a compromise, mutual promise < L compromissus, pp. of compromittere, to make a mutual promise to abide by an arbiter's decision < com-, together + promittere, to promise
transitive verb compromised, compromising
- to settle or adjust by concessions on both sides
- to lay open to danger, suspicion, or disrepute
- to weaken or give up (one's principles, ideals, etc.) as for reasons of expediency
- Med. to weaken or otherwise impair: drugs that compromised his immune system
intransitive verb
to make a compromise or compromises