Compensate

Definition

Compensate is a verb that means to provide something, typically money, as a recompense for loss, injury, or suffering. It can also refer to making up for something by exerting an opposite force or effect.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkɑːmpənseɪt/
• Respelling: KOM-puhn-sayt

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkɒmpənseɪt/
• Respelling: KOM-puhn-sayt

The pronunciation of "compensate" is similar in both American and British English, with slight differences in vowel sounds.

Etymology

The word "compensate" originates from the Latin word "compensare," which means "to weigh together" or "to balance." This is formed from "com-" meaning "together" and "pensare," meaning "to weigh." The term entered the English language in the 14th century.

Derivatives

• Compensation (noun)
• Compensatory (adjective)
• Compensated (verb, past tense)
• Compensating (verb, present participle)
• Compensator (noun)

Synonyms

• Reimburse
• Recompense
• Offset

Antonyms

• Deprive
• Penalize
• Forfeit

Usage

The verb "compensate" is often used in contexts where something is provided in return for loss, injury, or effort. For example, "The company agreed to compensate the workers for their overtime," or "He tried to compensate for his lack of experience with enthusiasm."

Related Terms

• Reimbursement: The action of repaying someone who has spent or lost money.
• Indemnify: To compensate someone for harm or loss.
• Redress: Remedy or compensation for a wrong or grievance.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To give someone something, typically money, in recognition of loss, suffering, or injury: This meaning is commonly used in legal and employment contexts.
  • Example: "The insurance company will compensate the policyholder for the damages."
• To make up for something by exerting an opposite force or effect: This meaning refers to actions taken to counterbalance or offset something.
  • Example: "He compensated for his small stature by being exceptionally strong."