n. & v.
--n.
1. the settlement of a dispute by mutual concession (reached a compromise by bargaining).
2 (often foll. by between) an intermediate state between conflicting opinions, actions, etc., reached by mutual concession or modification (a compromise between ideals and material necessity).
--v.
1. a intr. settle a dispute by mutual concession (compromised over the terms). b tr. archaic settle (a dispute) by mutual concession.
2 tr. bring into disrepute or danger esp. by indiscretion or folly.
Derivatives:
compromiser n. compromisingly adv.
Etymology: ME f. OF compromis f. LL compromissum neut. past part. of compromittere (as com-, promittere promise)