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

When burnout finally breaks through the façade, the imposter is exposed, creating a dangerous loop of overcompensation, self-doubt, and deeper exhaustion. —Ginger Gentile, Forbes.com, 13 Jan. 2026

Reluctance to take credit for successes, chronic self-doubt and overcompensation through perfectionism. —Tanya Arturi, Forbes, 18 Mar. 2025

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

Word History

First Known Use

1839, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for overcompensation

• acclimatisation
• acclimatization
• acidification
• actualization
• annualization
• autocorrelation
• autoregulation
• beatification
• beneficiation
• biodegradation
• biotransformation
• bureaucratization

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