- 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; as, where a landlord recouped the rent of premises from damages
awarded to the plaintiff for eviction. - To get an equivalent or compensation for; as, to recoup
money lost at the gaming table; to recoup one's losses in the share
market. - To reimburse; to indemnify; -- often used reflexively
and in the passive.