compromise: Meaning and Definition of

com•pro•mise

Pronunciation: (kom'pru-mīz"), [key]
— n., v., -mised, -mis•ing.
—n.
  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, esp. of reputation; exposure to danger, suspicion, etc.: a compromise of one's integrity.
—v.t.
  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.
    1. to bind by bargain or agreement.
    2. to bring to terms.
—v.i.
  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.
Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Copyright © 1997, by Random House, Inc., on Infoplease.
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