negotiate
UK[nɪˈɡəʊʃieɪt]US[nɪˈɡoʊʃieɪt]
v
To try to reach an agreement or compromise by discussion with others.
v
To successfully travel along or over a difficult path or obstacle.
Etymology
The word "negotiate" originates from the Latin negotiari, meaning "to carry on business." This verb itself is built from the noun negotium, a compound of neg- (a form of nec-, meaning "not") and otium ("leisure, ease"). Thus, the literal sense is "the absence of leisure," implying serious work or business. The meaning evolved from the general conduct of business to the specific process of conducting business through discussion and bargaining to reach agreements. The secondary meaning of "to navigate a physical obstacle" developed in the 17th century, metaphorically extending the idea of dealing with a difficult situation.
Analysis
The word is a simplex loanword from Latin. Its core morpheme is the Latin verb negotiari, meaning "to carry on business," derived from negotium ("business," literally "not leisure").
Examples
The two companies are negotiating a new trade agreement.
Union leaders will negotiate with management for better pay.
The climber carefully negotiated the steep, icy ridge.