Dictionary.com
Thesaurus.com
Synonyms

recoup

American  
[ri-koop] / rɪˈkup /

verb (used with object)

  1. to get back the equivalent of.

    to recoup one's losses by a lucky investment.

    Synonyms:
    balance, retrieve, restore, recover
  2. to regain or recover.

  3. to reimburse or indemnify; pay back.

    to recoup a person for expenses.

    Synonyms:
    remunerate, recompense
  4. Law. to withhold (a portion of something due), having some rightful claim to do so.


verb (used without object)

  1. to get back an equivalent, as of something lost.

  2. Law. (of a defendant in a lawsuit) to plead that one is owed, in the same matter, an amount by the plaintiff which applies against the payment of one’s own debt to the plaintiff.

noun

  1. an act of recouping.

recoup British  
/ rɪˈkuːp /

verb

  1. to regain or make good (a financial or other loss)

  2. (tr) to reimburse or compensate (someone), as for a loss

  3. law to keep back (something due), having rightful claim to do so; withhold; deduct

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

  • nonrecoupable adjective
  • recoupable adjective
  • recoupment noun
  • unrecoupable adjective

Etymology

Origin of recoup

First recorded in 1400–50; late Middle English, from Middle French recouper “to cut back, cut again,” equivalent to re- re- ( def. ) + couper “to cut”; coup 1 ( def. )

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

While some distributors opted for the streaming option, most held films until theaters could reopen safely and viewers felt comfortable returning, hoping to recoup whatever financial investment they could after an uncertain year.

From Salon

Kids2 sold around half of its potential refund value, which it estimates is around $15 million, to a hedge fund to recoup some of the cost.

From The Wall Street Journal

Malibu officials said the decision was necessary to try to recoup losses that affect “the long-term fiscal implications for Malibu and its taxpayers,” according to a news release.

From Los Angeles Times

The deal Wednesday allows long-term shareholders to recoup some of their losses.

From Barron's

Commerce officials said profits from the projects will be shared 50-50 until Japan’s initial investment is recouped, after which profits will be split 90-10 in favor of the U.S.

From The Wall Street Journal