definition of recompense
To recompense is to pay someone back or make amends to someone for some loss. An example of recompense is when a shoplifter gives money to the person from whom he stole. -Â·pensedÂ·, -Â·pensÂ·ing. 1  to repay (a person, etc.); reward; compensate.  to make repayment or requital for; compensate (a loss, injury, etc.)