recoupment

1 :  the process or fact of recouping recoupment of expenses

2a :  a keeping back of all or part of a sum sought by a plaintiff in the interest of equity — see also equitable recoupment b :  a reduction in damages because of a demand by the defendant arising out of the same occurrence or transaction c :  the right of a defendant to have the claim of the plaintiff reduced or eliminated by reason of a breach of contract or duty by the plaintiff in the same occurrence or transaction; also :  an affirmative defense alleging such a breach d :  a counterclaim that arises out of the same occurrence or transaction as that of the original action — compare set-off