Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English
The Collaborative International Dictionary
Modus vivendi \Mo"dus vi*ven"di\ [L.] Mode, or manner, of living; hence, a temporary arrangement of affairs until disputed matters can be settled.
Douglas Harper's Etymology Dictionary
1879, Latin, literally "way of living or getting along" (see modus).\n\nModus vivendi is any temporary compromise that enables parties to carry on pending settlement of a dispute that would otherwise paralyse their activities.
[Fowler]
Wiktionary
n. A way of living, especially a working arrangement to allow for peaceful coexistence between two parties in spite of differences or unresolved disputes. (from 19th c.)
WordNet
n. a temporary accommodation of a disagreement between parties pending a permanent settlement
a manner of living that reflects the person's values and attitudes [syn: life style, life-style, lifestyle]
Wikipedia
Modus vivendi is a Latin phrase that means "mode of living" or “way of life”. It often is used to mean an arrangement or agreement that allows conflicting parties to coexist in peace. In science or biology it is used to describe lifestyles.
Swedish heavy metal band Tad Morose's 2003 album, released on the Century Media label.
Usage examples of "modus vivendi".
The Japanese modus vivendi called for the United States to resume sending oil and scrap iron, and to recognize japan's right to rule East Asia and colonize China.
Under Reagan, America had sought to reach a modus vivendi with the same Iranians who had killed so many of their own, including most of those who thought of America as a friend - and been abandoned.
If you don't, then surely some kind of modus vivendi can be managed .
And since circumstances demanded that I function in a manner parallel to the modus vivendi of the underworld and its denizens, it behooved me to exist in the shadows of their milieu.
One night at VUW Headquarters he discussed the subject with Reinholt, Nina's husband, who of course was ignorant of the modus vivendi between George and Nina.