Definition of: compromise

(kom′prə·mīz) noun
1. An adjustment for settlement by arbitration and mutual concession, usually involving a partial surrender of purposes or principles.
2. Law An adjustment of a controversy by mutual consent in order to prevent or settle a lawsuit.
3. Anything that is the result of concessions; a medium between two conflicting courses; also, the habit or spirit of concession.
4. An imperiling or surrender, as of character or reputation.
—v. ·mised, ·mis·ing v.t.
1. To adjust by concessions.
2. To expose, as to suspicion, danger, or disrepute.
3. Obs. To bind or pledge mutually.
—v.i.
4. To make a settlement by concessions. [<F compromis <L compromissum a mutual agreement to accept arbitration <com- together + promittere promise]
—com′pro·mis′er noun