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recoup

From Wiktionary, the free dictionary

English

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Etymology

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From French recouper (cut short).

Pronunciation

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  • (US) IPA(key): /ɹɪˈkuːp/
  • Audio:(file)

Verb

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recoup (third-person singular simple present recoups, present participle recouping, simple past and past participle recouped)

  1. (transitive) To make back (an investment or similar).
    Synonym: recover
    He barely managed to recoup his money. He sold out for just what he had invested.
    to recoup losses made at the gaming table
    • 1964 August, “News and Comment: New BR standard half-barrier”, in Modern Railways, page 88:
      In July British Railways installed train-operated red-and-white level crossing half-barriers of a new design at 11 places, [...] The cost is given at £800 a pair, which can be readily recouped on savings in the cost of manning ordinary gated crossings.
  2. (intransitive) To recover from an error.
  3. (law, transitive) To keep back rightfully (a part), as if by cutting off, so as to diminish a sum due; to take off (a part) from damages; to deduct.
    A landlord recouped the rent of premises from damages awarded to the plaintiff for eviction.
  4. (transitive) To reimburse; to indemnify; often used reflexively and in the passive voice.
    • 1856–1870, James Anthony Froude, History of England from the Fall of Wolsey to the Death of Elizabeth, volume (please specify |volume=I to XII), London: Longmans, Green, and Co., →OCLC:
      Elizabeth had lost her venture; but if she was bold, she might recoup herself at Philip's cost.
    • 1887, George Campbell, 8th Duke of Argyll, Scotland as it was and as it is:
      Industry is sometimes recouped for a small price by extensive custom.

Derived terms

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Translations

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Anagrams

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