compromised
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈkɒmprəmaɪzd/
KK: /ˈkɒmprəmaɪzd/
adjective
Definition
Having been put in a situation where security or integrity is weakened or damaged.
Example
The data was compromised after the security breach.
Conversation
I heard that their security was compromised last week.
Really? That's kind of concerning.
Yeah, it makes you wonder how safe our information is.
Totally, I think we need to be more careful with our data.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
damaged
weakened
impaired
Antonyms
secure
intact
unharmed
verb
Definition
To have made a deal or agreement where both sides give up something to reach a solution.
Example
The two companies compromised on the terms of the contract to ensure a successful partnership.
Tense Forms
Past: compromised
Past Participle: compromised
Conversation
Did you hear about the security breach at the company?
Yeah, it’s a bit worrying that their data was compromised.
Right? I can't believe they let that happen.
Root Explanation
Compromised → It is formed from "com-" (meaning together) and "promittere" (meaning to promise). The word originally referred to a mutual promise or agreement, but has evolved to mean a situation where security or integrity has been weakened or exposed.
Memory Tip
Think of people coming 'together' ('com-') to make a 'promise' ('promittere') — that's how compromised means an agreement that has been weakened.
Visually Confused Words
uncompromised
procompromise
uncomprised