uncompromised

Uncompromised is an adjective describing something that has not been compromised, altered, or weakened by external pressure. It is often used to convey integrity, remaining faithful to a set of principles, standards, or facts without yielding to coercion, bribery, or influence. In a broader sense, it can also refer to objects or systems kept in an original, unaltered state or protected from corruption.

In common usage, uncompromised appears in discussions of ethics, journalism, business, and technology. An uncompromised stance or position signals firmness and adherence to stated values, even when facing opposition. In journalism and evidence-based fields, uncompromised reporting or data implies that information has not been altered or tampered with. In cybersecurity and information security, an uncompromised system or credential denotes one that has not been breached or adulterated. The term can carry a positive connotation of reliability and trust, though it can be perceived subjectively depending on context, especially in debates about inflexibility or absolutism.

Etymology and related terms: uncompromised is formed by the prefix un- added to compromised, from the noun compromissum or verb compromis, with roots in Latin. Related terms include uncompromising, integrity, steadfast, and unwavering. The opposite of uncompromised is compromised, referring to something that has been weakened, altered, or exposed to influence.