-və̇ˈvendē, -ˌdī noun
( plural modi vivendi )
Etymology: New Latin, manner of living
1. : an arrangement between two nations or groups that effects a workable compromise on issues in dispute without permanently settling them
essential that a modus vivendi be set up if conflict is to be avoided — Donald Davidson
a modus vivendi which both worlds could accept and which would provide to each physical security against military attack — Newsweek
2. : a manner of living : a way of life
after many spiritual fits and starts, he found himself and worked out a satisfactory modus vivendi — New Yorker
cocktail parties were a modus vivendi in themselves — Jean Stafford