\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.