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