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

overcompensate

ˌō-vər-ˈkäm-pən-ˌsāt 

verb

overcompensatory

ˌō-vər-kəm-ˈpen(t)-sə-ˌtȯr-ē 

adjective

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

Word History

First Known Use

1839, in the meaning defined above

Medical 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

overcompensate

-ˈkäm-pən-ˌsāt 

verb

overcompensated; overcompensating

overcompensatory

-kəm-ˈpen(t)-sə-ˌtōr-ē, -ˌtȯr- 

adjective