Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Modus vivendi \Mo"dus vi*ven"di\ [L.]
   Mods, or manner, of living; hence, a temporary arrangement of
   affairs until disputed matters can be settled.

Source : WordNet®

modus vivendi
     n 1: a temporary accommodation of a disagreement between parties
          pending a permanent settlement
     2: a manner of living that reflects the person's values and
        attitudes [syn: {life style}, {life-style}, {lifestyle}]