# compensatory

/kəmˈpɛnsəˌtɔɹi/ (US) · /kˈɒmpənsətəɹˌi/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/compensatory
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

describing something that makes up for a loss or a bad situation. You use this to talk about a reward or a change that balances out a negative thing.

For teachers: serving to make up for a loss, deficiency, or disadvantage. Often describes a psychological or physical mechanism that counteracts an initial deficit.

## Examples

- The company offered a compensatory bonus for the extra work.
- The athlete's compensatory movements during the race helped him maintain his speed despite the injury.
- In many legal systems, a compensatory payment is required to restore the plaintiff to the financial position they were in before the accident occurred.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.