To give a substitute of equal value to; give an equivalent to; recompense: as, to compensate a laborer for his work or a merchant for his losses.To make up for; counterbalance; make amends for.In mech., to construct so as to effect compensation for the results of variations of temperature. See compensation, 4.Synonyms Recompense, Remunerate, etc. (see indemnify), reward.To supply or serve as an equivalent; make amends; atone: followed by for: as, what can compensate for the loss of honor?