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compromise

KOM-pruh-mize /ˈkɒmprəmaɪz/

verbnounB2GRESATTOEFLIELTS

formaltechnical

To expose to danger, suspicion, or unauthorized access; to break security integrity.

In security contexts, it means a defender's system or credentials have been breached or exposed to adversaries.

The story behind the word. Originating from Latin 'compromissum', meaning a mutual promise to abide by an arbitrator's decision. In diplomatic and legal contexts, this meant both sides conceded something. By the late 19th century, conceding too much meant risking one's reputation or defense—leading directly to the modern security sense where a system's defense is endangered or invaded.

Word relationships

undermine: Undermine means to weaken gradually, whereas compromise in tech means a security breach has occurred.
expose: Expose means making visible or vulnerable, while compromise implies actual breach or loss of control.

protect: To keep safe from harm, exposure, or breach.
secure: To ensure absolute safety and prevent access.

Commonly confused with

breach: A breach is the act of breaking through defenses; compromising is the state of being exposed or taken over as a result.

Word family

compromised (adjective): Having suffered a breach or exposure.
uncompromising (adjective): Inflexible or unwilling to yield.

Collocations

compromise security
compromised system
compromised account
indicator of compromise

Example sentences

"Hackers managed to compromise the server by exploiting an unpatched software vulnerability." Incident Response

Memory hook

When defense PROMISES fall apart, security is COMPROMISED. Exposed defenses.

When not to use

In non-tech contexts, it often means reaching a mutual agreement by concession; do not confuse agreement with security exposure.

Fun facts

In threat intelligence, an 'IOC' (Indicator of Compromise) is like a digital forensic fingerprint—a domain, IP address, or file hash that proves an intruder was present.