middle ground

noun

1
: a standpoint or area midway between extreme or opposing positions, options, or objectives
2

Examples of middle ground in a Sentence

The judge of the case chose a middle ground between harshness and leniency. Both sides in this debate need to do more to establish some middle ground.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Kelsi Corkran, an attorney for immigrant rights organizations, argued that justices could choose a middle ground: Allowing for universal injunctions only when a fundamental constitutional right is being challenged. SURVEY SAYS: As Trump tries to end birthright citizenship, what do Americans think? David Catanese, Miami Herald, 15 May 2025 One way to prevent false choices is to challenge either-or assumptions by looking for the middle ground. Ryan Lahti, Forbes.com, 7 May 2025 There is no middle ground, not with Trump and not in Massachusetts. Peter Lucas, Boston Herald, 12 Apr. 2025 That means finding a middle ground between romanticism and realism. Todd Martens, Los Angeles Times, 2 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for middle ground

Word History

First Known Use

1752, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of middle ground was in 1752

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Middle ground.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/middle%20ground. Accessed 23 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

middle ground

noun
: a position midway between extreme or opposing points of view, choices, or objectives
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!