overcompensation
noun
over·com·pen·sa·tion
ˌō-vər-ˌkäm-pən-ˈsā-shən 
-ˌpen-
: excessive compensation
specifically
: excessive reaction to a feeling of inferiority, guilt, or inadequacy leading to an exaggerated attempt to overcome the feeling
Examples of overcompensation in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Aaron’s overcompensation clearly stems from a struggle with his sexuality.
—
Ben Rosenstock, Vulture, 17 Sep. 2024
This can lead to muscle imbalances or overcompensation.
—Jenny McCoy, SELF, 17 Jan. 2024
But all that is a relatively benign manifestation of overcompensation.
—Michael Tomasky, The New Republic, 18 Sep. 2023
As yet another addition to the always-assembling Avengers of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, the Norse god could easily have become something of an afterthought, a ridiculous figure of overcompensation with his giant hammer, flowing Viking locks and bulging biceps.
—Ann Hornaday, Washington Post, 5 July 2022
See all Example Sentences for overcompensation 
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Ben Rosenstock, Vulture, 17 Sep. 2024
This can lead to muscle imbalances or overcompensation.
—Jenny McCoy, SELF, 17 Jan. 2024
But all that is a relatively benign manifestation of overcompensation.
—Michael Tomasky, The New Republic, 18 Sep. 2023
As yet another addition to the always-assembling Avengers of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, the Norse god could easily have become something of an afterthought, a ridiculous figure of overcompensation with his giant hammer, flowing Viking locks and bulging biceps.
—Ann Hornaday, Washington Post, 5 July 2022
See all Example Sentences for overcompensation
Dictionary Entries Near overcompensation
Cite this Entry
“Overcompensation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/overcompensation. Accessed 17 Nov. 2024.
Copy CitationMedical Definition
overcompensation
noun
over·com·pen·sa·tion
-ˌkäm-pən-ˈsā-shən, -ˌpen-
: excessive compensation
specifically
: excessive reaction to a feeling of inferiority, guilt, or inadequacy leading to an exaggerated attempt to overcome the feeling
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