restitution

[ res-ti-too-shuhn, -tyoo- ]

noun

1. reparation made by giving an equivalent or compensation for loss, damage, or injury caused; indemnification.

   Synonyms: repayment, satisfaction, requital, compensation, amends, recompense

2. the restoration of property or rights previously taken away, conveyed, or surrendered.
3. restoration to the former or original state or position.
4. Physics. the return to an original physical condition, especially after elastic deformation.

restitution

/ ˌrɛstɪˈtjuːʃən /

noun

1. the act of giving back something that has been lost or stolen
2. law the act of compensating for loss or injury by reverting as far as possible to the position before such injury occurred
3. the return of an object or system to its original state, esp a restoration of shape after elastic deformation

Derived Forms

• ˈrestiˌtutive, adjective

Other Words From

• resti·tutive res·ti·tu·to·ry [res-ti-, too, -t, uh, -ree, -, tyoo, -], adjective
• nonres·ti·tution noun
• un·resti·tutive adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of restitution¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English restitucioun, from Old French restitution, restitucion, from Latin restitūtiōn- (stem of restitūtiō ) “a rebuilding, restoration,” equivalent to restitūt(us) + -iōn-. See restitute, -ion

Word History and Origins

Origin of restitution¹

C13: from Latin rēstitūtiō , from rēstituere to rebuild, from re- + statuere to set up

Synonym Study

See redress.

Example Sentences

Survivors have argued that Luxon's apology rings hollow unless it is accompanied with proper plans for restitution.

From BBC

Details on a restitution scheme are not expected until early next year.

From BBC

“I think there needs to be some reparations and restitution involved as well,” he said.

From BBC

Daniel Shaun Zilke, who went by the nickname “the Englishman,” was also fined $50,000 and ordered to pay $150,000 in restitution to the Drug Enforcement Administration.

From Los Angeles Times

He must pay restitution of $130,459 to the city of Los Angeles.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• indemnity
• payment
• rebate
• redress
• refund
• reimbursement
• reparation
• restoration