redress
UK: rɪˈdres | US: rɪˈdres
n. remedy or compensation for a wrong or grievance
vt. to correct or rectify something unjust or harmful
vt. to set right; adjust or balance
The word "redress" originates from Old French redrecier ("to straighten again"), combining the prefix re- (meaning "again") and dresser (meaning "to arrange or set straight"). The root dresser itself derives from Latin directiare, a derivative of directus ("straight, direct"). Over time, "redress" evolved from its literal sense of physical straightening to a figurative meaning of correcting injustices or imbalances, reflecting the logical progression from physical to abstract remediation.
The victims sought legal redress for the damages they suffered.
The new policy aims to redress systemic inequalities in the workplace.
He apologized, but she felt no redress for the emotional harm done.
The court ordered the company to redress the environmental harm it caused.
Historical injustices often require deliberate efforts to redress past wrongs.