n. 1. One who, or that which, compensates; -- a name applied to various mechanical devices. [ 1913 Webster ]
2. (Naut.) An iron plate or magnet placed near the compass on iron vessels to neutralize the effect of the ship's attraction on the needle. [ 1913 Webster ]
(n) (law) compensation for losses that can readily be proven to have occurred and for which the injured party has the right to be compensated, Syn. general damages, compensatory damages