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restitution

ress-tih-TOO-shun /ˌres.tɪˈtʃuː.ʃən/

nounC1GREUPSCSAT

legalformal

The restoration of something lost or stolen to its proper owner, or compensation for injury or loss.

Focuses on returning actual stolen objects, ancestral lands, or cultural items to original holders.

The story behind the word. Derived from Latin restitutio, from restituere ('to rebuild' or 'restore'). It combines re- ('again') and statuere ('to cause to stand'). Literally, it means 'setting something back up on its feet'.

Word relationships

repatriation: 'Repatriation' specifically means sending back to country of origin; 'restitution' emphasizes restoring lost ownership or compensating.
reparation: 'Reparation' often refers to monetary compensation for historical wrongs, while 'restitution' focuses on returning specific physical items or land.

confiscation: Seizure of property by authority.
expropriation: Taking away property without consent.

Commonly confused with

institution: 'Institution' is an established organization, not a restoration of stolen property.

Word family

restitute (verb): To restore to original owner
restitutive (adjective): Pertaining to restitution

Collocations

make restitution
restitution of property
cultural restitution
demand restitution

Example sentences

"The museum established a committee to facilitate the restitution of looted cultural artifacts." Museum ethics
"Land restitution legislation enabled families to reclaim property confiscated during the war." Land reform legislation

Memory hook

RESTITUTION = RESToring to ITS original owner. Setting back in place.

When not to use

Do not use for simple commercial trading or standard purchasing.

Fun facts

The Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) of 1990 led to massive restitution of artifacts and remains to tribes across the US.