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Definition of overcompensation

overcompensation

/ˌoʊvɚˌkɑːmpənˈseɪʃən/
o · ver · com · pen · sa · tion
Plural:overcompensations
•
Adjective:overcompensatory
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overcompensation Lexical Profile

• noun

1

The act of taking excessive measures to correct, conceal, or make up for a perceived defect, weakness, or mistake, especially as a psychological defense mechanism against feelings of inferiority.

Example

"The psychologist noted that the patient's boastful demeanor was a classic case of overcompensation for deep-seated insecurity."

2

Excessive financial payment, remuneration, or reward given to someone in exchange for work, services, or a loss.

Example

"Shareholders voiced strong concerns regarding the overcompensation of senior executives during a period of declining profits."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for overcompensation
Antonyms
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• Rhymes for overcompensation

• Nearby Words

overcommitted
overcommunicate
overcompensate
overcompensation
overcomplex
overcomplicate
overcomplication

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the early 20th century from 'over-' and 'compensation', largely popularized in English through translations of the Austrian psychiatrist Alfred Adler's theories on inferiority complexes (German 'Überkompensation').

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Overcompensation. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/overcompensation
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