compromise

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. [ 1913 Webster ]

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. [ 1913 Webster ]

But basely yielded upon compromise
That which his noble ancestors achieved with blows. Shak. [ 1913 Webster ]

All government, indeed every human benefit and enjoyment, every virtue and every prudent act, is founded on compromise and barter. Burke. [ 1913 Webster ]

An abhorrence of concession and compromise is a never failing characteristic of religious factions. Hallam. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. A committal to something derogatory or objectionable; a prejudicial concession; a surrender; as, a compromise of character or right. [ 1913 Webster ]

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. [ 1913 Webster ]

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. ] [ 1913 Webster ]

Laban and himself were compromised
That all the eanlings which were streaked and pied
Should fall as Jacob's hire. Shak. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. To adjust and settle by mutual concessions; to compound. [ 1913 Webster ]

The controversy may easily be compromised. Fuller. [ 1913 Webster ]

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. [ 1913 Webster ]

To pardon all who had been compromised in the late disturbances. Motley. [ 1913 Webster ]

v. i. 1. To agree; to accord. [ Obs. ] [ 1913 Webster ]

2. To make concession for conciliation and peace. [ 1913 Webster ]