Crossword Dictionary

What's The Definition Of Compromise?

\Com"pro*mise\, n. [F. compromis, fr. L. compromissum a mutual promise to abide by the decision of an arbiter, fr. compromittere to make such a promise; com- + promittere to promise. See {Promise}.] 1. A mutual agreement to refer matters in dispute to the decision of arbitrators. [Obs.] --Burrill. 2. A settlement by arbitration or by mutual consent reached by concession on both sides; a reciprocal abatement of extreme demands or rights, resulting in an agreement. But basely yielded upon compromise That which his noble ancestors achieved with blows. --Shak. All government, indeed every human benefit and enjoyment, every virtue and every prudent act, is founded on compromise and barter. --Burke. An abhorrence of concession and compromise is a never failing characteristic of religious factions. --Hallam. 3. A committal to something derogatory or objectionable; a prejudicial concession; a surrender; as, a compromise of character or right. I was determined not to accept any fine speeches, to the compromise of that sex the belonging to which was, after all, my strongest claim and title to them. --Lamb.
\Com"pro*mise\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Compromised}; p. pr. & vb. n. {Compromising}.] [From {Compromise}, n.; cf. {Compromit}.] 1. To bind by mutual agreement; to agree. [Obs.] Laban and himself were compromised That all the eanlings which were streaked and pied Should fall as Jacob's hire. --Shak. 2. To adjust and settle by mutual concessions; to compound. The controversy may easily be compromised. --Fuller. 3. To pledge by some act or declaration; to endanger the life, reputation, etc., of, by some act which can not be recalled; to expose to suspicion. To pardon all who had been compromised in the late disturbances. --Motley.
\Com"pro*mise\, v. i. 1. To agree; to accord. [Obs.] 2. To make concession for conciliation and peace.