overcompensation
|o/ver/com/pen/sa/tion|
🇺🇸
/ˌoʊvərˌkɒmpənˈseɪʃən/
🇬🇧
/ˌəʊvəˌkɒmpənˈseɪʃən/
excessive compensation
Etymology
'overcompensation' originates from the prefix 'over-' meaning 'excessive' and the word 'compensation' from Latin 'compensare', meaning 'to weigh together'.
'compensare' transformed into the Old French word 'compensacion', and eventually became the modern English word 'compensation'.
Initially, it meant 'to balance or offset', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'excessive compensation'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the act of compensating excessively, often to make up for a perceived deficiency or weakness.
His constant bragging was seen as an overcompensation for his lack of confidence.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/24 03:24