<?xml version="1.0" encoding="us-ascii"?>
<!--XBRL document created with Merrill Bridge  9.0.0.120 -->
<!--Based on XBRL 2.1-->
<!--Created on: 2/19/2019 4:01:22 PM-->
<!--Modified on: 2/19/2019 4:01:22 PM-->
<link:linkbase xmlns:link="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" xmlns:xsi="http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema-instance" xmlns:xbrldt="http://xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt" xmlns:xbrli="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/instance" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" xsi:schemaLocation="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase http://www.xbrl.org/2003/xbrl-linkbase-2003-12-31.xsd">
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-roles-2018-01-31.xsd#eedm" roleURI="http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/eedm/ExtensibleEnumerationLists" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#DocumentDocumentAndEntityInformation" roleURI="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DocumentDocumentAndEntityInformation" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#StatementConsolidatedBalanceSheets" roleURI="http://www.usacompression.com/role/StatementConsolidatedBalanceSheets" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#StatementConsolidatedBalanceSheetsParenthetical" roleURI="http://www.usacompression.com/role/StatementConsolidatedBalanceSheetsParenthetical" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfOperations" roleURI="http://www.usacompression.com/role/StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfOperations" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfChangesInPartnersCapitalAndPredecessorParentCompanyNetInvestment" roleURI="http://www.usacompression.com/role/StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfChangesInPartnersCapitalAndPredecessorParentCompanyNetInvestment" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfCashFlows" roleURI="http://www.usacompression.com/role/StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfCashFlows" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#DisclosureOrganizationAndDescriptionOfBusinessDetails" roleURI="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosureOrganizationAndDescriptionOfBusinessDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#DisclosureBasisOfPresentationAndSignificantAccountingPoliciesPartnershipDetails" roleURI="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosureBasisOfPresentationAndSignificantAccountingPoliciesPartnershipDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#DisclosureBasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesPropertyAndEquipmentDetails" roleURI="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosureBasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesPropertyAndEquipmentDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#DisclosureBasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesFairValueDetails" roleURI="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosureBasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesFairValueDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#DisclosureAcquisitionsDetails" roleURI="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosureAcquisitionsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#DisclosureTradeAccountsReceivableDetails" roleURI="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosureTradeAccountsReceivableDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#DisclosureInstallmentReceivableDetails" roleURI="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosureInstallmentReceivableDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#DisclosurePropertyAndEquipmentIdentifiableIntangibleAssetsAndGoodwillPropertyAndEquipmentDetails" roleURI="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosurePropertyAndEquipmentIdentifiableIntangibleAssetsAndGoodwillPropertyAndEquipmentDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#DisclosurePropertyAndEquipmentIdentifiableIntangibleAssetsAndGoodwillIntangibleAssetsAndGoodwillDetails" roleURI="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosurePropertyAndEquipmentIdentifiableIntangibleAssetsAndGoodwillIntangibleAssetsAndGoodwillDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#DisclosureOtherCurrentAssetsAndOtherCurrentLiabilitiesDetails" roleURI="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosureOtherCurrentAssetsAndOtherCurrentLiabilitiesDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#DisclosureIncomeTaxExpenseDetails" roleURI="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosureIncomeTaxExpenseDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#DisclosureLongTermDebtDetails" roleURI="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosureLongTermDebtDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#DisclosureLongTermDebtFutureMaturitiesDetails" roleURI="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosureLongTermDebtFutureMaturitiesDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#DisclosurePreferredUnitsAndWarrantsDetails" roleURI="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosurePreferredUnitsAndWarrantsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#DisclosurePartnersCapitalDetails" roleURI="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosurePartnersCapitalDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#DisclosurePartnersCapitalCashDistributionsDetails" roleURI="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosurePartnersCapitalCashDistributionsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#DisclosurePartnersCapitalEarningsPerCommonAndSubordinatedUnitIncentiveDistributionRightsDetails" roleURI="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosurePartnersCapitalEarningsPerCommonAndSubordinatedUnitIncentiveDistributionRightsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#DisclosurePartnersCapitalEquityOfferingDetails" roleURI="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosurePartnersCapitalEquityOfferingDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#DisclosureRevenueRecognitionDisaggregatedRevenueDetails" roleURI="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosureRevenueRecognitionDisaggregatedRevenueDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#DisclosureRevenueRecognitionDetails" roleURI="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosureRevenueRecognitionDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#DisclosureTransactionsWithRelatedPartiesDetails" roleURI="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosureTransactionsWithRelatedPartiesDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#DisclosureUnitBasedCompensationDetails" roleURI="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosureUnitBasedCompensationDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#DisclosureEmployeeBenefitPlansDetails" roleURI="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosureEmployeeBenefitPlansDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingenciesPurchaseCommitmentsDetails" roleURI="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingenciesPurchaseCommitmentsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#DisclosureRecentAccountingPronouncementsDetails" roleURI="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosureRecentAccountingPronouncementsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#DisclosureSubsequentEventsDetails" roleURI="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosureSubsequentEventsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#DisclosureSelectedQuarterlyFinancialDataUnauditedDetails" roleURI="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosureSelectedQuarterlyFinancialDataUnauditedDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <link:arcroleRef arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#all" />
  <link:arcroleRef arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#dimension-domain" />
  <link:arcroleRef arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#domain-member" />
  <link:arcroleRef arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#hypercube-dimension" />
  <link:arcroleRef arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#dimension-default" />
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/eedm/ExtensibleEnumerationLists" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="Extensible Enumeration Domain Members" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DocumentDocumentAndEntityInformation" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="00090 - Document - Document and Entity Information" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain_636861888793723266" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain_636861888793723266" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_CommonUnitsMember" xlink:label="usac_CommonUnitsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="usac_CommonUnitsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CapitalUnitClassBMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CapitalUnitClassBMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CapitalUnitClassBMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2018/dei-2018-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityRegistrantName" xlink:label="dei_EntityRegistrantName" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityRegistrantName" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2018/dei-2018-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityCentralIndexKey" xlink:label="dei_EntityCentralIndexKey" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityCentralIndexKey" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2018/dei-2018-01-31.xsd#dei_DocumentType" xlink:label="dei_DocumentType" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_DocumentType" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2018/dei-2018-01-31.xsd#dei_DocumentPeriodEndDate" xlink:label="dei_DocumentPeriodEndDate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_DocumentPeriodEndDate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2018/dei-2018-01-31.xsd#dei_AmendmentFlag" xlink:label="dei_AmendmentFlag" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_AmendmentFlag" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2018/dei-2018-01-31.xsd#dei_CurrentFiscalYearEndDate" xlink:label="dei_CurrentFiscalYearEndDate" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_CurrentFiscalYearEndDate" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2018/dei-2018-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityWellKnownSeasonedIssuer" xlink:label="dei_EntityWellKnownSeasonedIssuer" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityWellKnownSeasonedIssuer" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2018/dei-2018-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityVoluntaryFilers" xlink:label="dei_EntityVoluntaryFilers" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityVoluntaryFilers" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2018/dei-2018-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityCurrentReportingStatus" xlink:label="dei_EntityCurrentReportingStatus" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityCurrentReportingStatus" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2018/dei-2018-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityFilerCategory" xlink:label="dei_EntityFilerCategory" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityFilerCategory" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2018/dei-2018-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityPublicFloat" xlink:label="dei_EntityPublicFloat" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityPublicFloat" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2018/dei-2018-01-31.xsd#dei_EntitySmallBusiness" xlink:label="dei_EntitySmallBusiness" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntitySmallBusiness" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2018/dei-2018-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityEmergingGrowthCompany" xlink:label="dei_EntityEmergingGrowthCompany" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="14" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityEmergingGrowthCompany" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2018/dei-2018-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityExTransitionPeriod" xlink:label="dei_EntityExTransitionPeriod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="15" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityExTransitionPeriod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2018/dei-2018-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityShellCompany" xlink:label="dei_EntityShellCompany" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="16" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityShellCompany" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2018/dei-2018-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityCommonStockSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="dei_EntityCommonStockSharesOutstanding" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="17" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityCommonStockSharesOutstanding" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2018/dei-2018-01-31.xsd#dei_DocumentFiscalYearFocus" xlink:label="dei_DocumentFiscalYearFocus" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="18" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_DocumentFiscalYearFocus" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2018/dei-2018-01-31.xsd#dei_DocumentFiscalPeriodFocus" xlink:label="dei_DocumentFiscalPeriodFocus" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="19" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_DocumentFiscalPeriodFocus" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.usacompression.com/role/StatementConsolidatedBalanceSheets" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="00100 - Statement - Consolidated Balance Sheets" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountNameDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountNameDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountNameDomain_636861888793743268" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountNameDomain_636861888793743268" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LimitedPartnerMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_LimitedPartnerMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountNameDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_LimitedPartnerMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountByClassAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountByClassAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountByClassAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountByClassAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain_636861888793743268" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountByClassAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain_636861888793743268" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_CommonUnitsMember" xlink:label="usac_CommonUnitsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" xlink:to="usac_CommonUnitsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CapitalUnitClassBMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CapitalUnitClassBMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CapitalUnitClassBMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_WarrantMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_WarrantMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_WarrantMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccountsReceivableNetCurrentAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountsReceivableNetCurrentAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccountsReceivableNetCurrentAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccountsReceivableNetCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountsReceivableNetCurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountsReceivableNetCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccountsReceivableNetCurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherReceivablesNetCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherReceivablesNetCurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountsReceivableNetCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherReceivablesNetCurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccountsReceivableRelatedPartiesCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountsReceivableRelatedPartiesCurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccountsReceivableRelatedPartiesCurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InventoryNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_InventoryNet" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_InventoryNet" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PrepaidExpenseCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_PrepaidExpenseCurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PrepaidExpenseCurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PrepaidExpenseAndOtherAssetsCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_PrepaidExpenseAndOtherAssetsCurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PrepaidExpenseAndOtherAssetsCurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AssetsCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetsCurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetsCurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NotesAndLoansReceivableGrossNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_NotesAndLoansReceivableGrossNoncurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NotesAndLoansReceivableGrossNoncurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsNet" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsNet" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Goodwill" xlink:label="us-gaap_Goodwill" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_Goodwill" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherAssetsNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherAssetsNoncurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherAssetsNoncurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Assets" xlink:label="us-gaap_Assets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_Assets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccountsPayableCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountsPayableCurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccountsPayableCurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccountsPayableRelatedPartiesCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountsPayableRelatedPartiesCurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccountsPayableRelatedPartiesCurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredRevenueCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredRevenueCurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredRevenueCurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtNoncurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtNoncurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherLiabilities" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherLiabilities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherLiabilities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Liabilities" xlink:label="us-gaap_Liabilities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_Liabilities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RedeemableNoncontrollingInterestEquityPreferredCarryingAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_RedeemableNoncontrollingInterestEquityPreferredCarryingAmount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_RedeemableNoncontrollingInterestEquityPreferredCarryingAmount" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingencies" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingencies" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingencies" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PartnersCapitalAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_PartnersCapitalAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PartnersCapitalAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccount" xlink:label="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PartnersCapitalAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccount" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightOutstanding" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_PartnersCapitalAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightOutstanding" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GeneralPartnersCapitalAccount" xlink:label="us-gaap_GeneralPartnersCapitalAccount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_PartnersCapitalAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_GeneralPartnersCapitalAccount" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PartnersCapital" xlink:label="us-gaap_PartnersCapital" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_PartnersCapitalAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PartnersCapital" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquity" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquity" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquity" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.usacompression.com/role/StatementConsolidatedBalanceSheetsParenthetical" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="00105 - Statement - Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountNameDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountNameDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LimitedPartnerMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_LimitedPartnerMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountNameDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_LimitedPartnerMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountByClassAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountByClassAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountByClassAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountByClassAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_CommonUnitsMember" xlink:label="usac_CommonUnitsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" xlink:to="usac_CommonUnitsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CapitalUnitClassBMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CapitalUnitClassBMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CapitalUnitClassBMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountUnitsIssued" xlink:label="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountUnitsIssued" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountUnitsIssued" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountUnitsOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountUnitsOutstanding" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountUnitsOutstanding" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.usacompression.com/role/StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfOperations" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="00200 - Statement - Consolidated Statements of Operations" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountByClassAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountByClassAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountByClassAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountByClassAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_CommonUnitsMember" xlink:label="usac_CommonUnitsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" xlink:to="usac_CommonUnitsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CapitalUnitClassBMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CapitalUnitClassBMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CapitalUnitClassBMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueRecognitionAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueRecognitionAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueRecognitionAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerIncludingAssessedTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerIncludingAssessedTax" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenueRecognitionAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerIncludingAssessedTax" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_PartsAndServiceRevenue" xlink:label="usac_PartsAndServiceRevenue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenueRecognitionAbstract" xlink:to="usac_PartsAndServiceRevenue" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromRelatedParties" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueFromRelatedParties" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenueRecognitionAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueFromRelatedParties" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Revenues" xlink:label="us-gaap_Revenues" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenueRecognitionAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_Revenues" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CostsAndExpensesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_CostsAndExpensesAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CostsAndExpensesAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CostOfServicesExcludingDepreciationDepletionAndAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_CostOfServicesExcludingDepreciationDepletionAndAmortization" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostsAndExpensesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CostOfServicesExcludingDepreciationDepletionAndAmortization" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostsAndExpensesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DepreciationAndAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_DepreciationAndAmortization" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostsAndExpensesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DepreciationAndAmortization" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfPropertyPlantEquipment" xlink:label="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfPropertyPlantEquipment" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostsAndExpensesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfPropertyPlantEquipment" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ImpairmentOfLongLivedAssetsHeldForUse" xlink:label="us-gaap_ImpairmentOfLongLivedAssetsHeldForUse" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostsAndExpensesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ImpairmentOfLongLivedAssetsHeldForUse" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GoodwillImpairmentLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_GoodwillImpairmentLoss" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostsAndExpensesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_GoodwillImpairmentLoss" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingExpenses" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingExpenses" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostsAndExpensesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingExpenses" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NonoperatingIncomeExpenseAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NonoperatingIncomeExpenseAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NonoperatingIncomeExpenseAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InterestExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestExpense" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_NonoperatingIncomeExpenseAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestExpense" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpense" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_NonoperatingIncomeExpenseAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpense" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NonoperatingIncomeExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_NonoperatingIncomeExpense" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_NonoperatingIncomeExpenseAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NonoperatingIncomeExpense" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesExtraordinaryItemsNoncontrollingInterest" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesExtraordinaryItemsNoncontrollingInterest" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesExtraordinaryItemsNoncontrollingInterest" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_PreferredUnitDistributions" xlink:label="usac_PreferredUnitDistributions" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="usac_PreferredUnitDistributions" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_NetIncomeLossAttributableToCommonAndClassBUnitholders" xlink:label="usac_NetIncomeLossAttributableToCommonAndClassBUnitholders" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="usac_NetIncomeLossAttributableToCommonAndClassBUnitholders" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PartnershipIncomeAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_PartnershipIncomeAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PartnershipIncomeAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAllocatedToLimitedPartners" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAllocatedToLimitedPartners" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PartnershipIncomeAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAllocatedToLimitedPartners" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLossPerOutstandingLimitedPartnershipUnitOtherDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLossPerOutstandingLimitedPartnershipUnitOtherDisclosuresAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLossPerOutstandingLimitedPartnershipUnitOtherDisclosuresAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfLimitedPartnershipAndGeneralPartnershipUnitOutstandingBasicAndDiluted" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfLimitedPartnershipAndGeneralPartnershipUnitOutstandingBasicAndDiluted" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetIncomeLossPerOutstandingLimitedPartnershipUnitOtherDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfLimitedPartnershipAndGeneralPartnershipUnitOutstandingBasicAndDiluted" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLossPerOutstandingLimitedPartnershipAndGeneralPartnershipUnitBasicAndDiluted" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLossPerOutstandingLimitedPartnershipAndGeneralPartnershipUnitBasicAndDiluted" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLossPerOutstandingLimitedPartnershipAndGeneralPartnershipUnitBasicAndDiluted" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DistributionsPerLimitedPartnershipUnitOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_DistributionsPerLimitedPartnershipUnitOutstanding" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="14" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DistributionsPerLimitedPartnershipUnitOutstanding" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.usacompression.com/role/StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfChangesInPartnersCapitalAndPredecessorParentCompanyNetInvestment" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="00300 - Statement - Consolidated Statements of Changes in Partners' Capital And Predecessor Parent Company Net Investment" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountByClassAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountByClassAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountByClassAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountByClassAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_CommonUnitsMember" xlink:label="usac_CommonUnitsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" xlink:to="usac_CommonUnitsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CapitalUnitClassBMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CapitalUnitClassBMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CapitalUnitClassBMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_WarrantMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_WarrantMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_WarrantMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountNameDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountNameDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LimitedPartnerMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_LimitedPartnerMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountNameDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_LimitedPartnerMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PartnerCapitalComponentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PartnerCapitalComponentsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_PartnerCapitalComponentsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PartnerCapitalComponentsDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PartnerCapitalComponentsDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PartnerCapitalComponentsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PartnerCapitalComponentsDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PartnerCapitalComponentsDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PartnerCapitalComponentsDomain_636861888793963290" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PartnerCapitalComponentsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PartnerCapitalComponentsDomain_636861888793963290" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_PredecessorParentCompanyNetInvestmentMember" xlink:label="usac_PredecessorParentCompanyNetInvestmentMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PartnerCapitalComponentsDomain" xlink:to="usac_PredecessorParentCompanyNetInvestmentMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInPartnersCapitalRollForward" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInPartnersCapitalRollForward" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInPartnersCapitalRollForward" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccount" xlink:label="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInPartnersCapitalRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccount" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GeneralPartnersCapitalAccount" xlink:label="us-gaap_GeneralPartnersCapitalAccount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInPartnersCapitalRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_GeneralPartnersCapitalAccount" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PartnersCapital" xlink:label="us-gaap_PartnersCapital" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInPartnersCapitalRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_PartnersCapital" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInPartnersCapitalRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_NetIncomeLossQuarterlyPeriod" xlink:label="usac_NetIncomeLossQuarterlyPeriod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInPartnersCapitalRollForward" xlink:to="usac_NetIncomeLossQuarterlyPeriod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_PartnersCapitalAccountContributionsQuarterlyPeriod" xlink:label="usac_PartnersCapitalAccountContributionsQuarterlyPeriod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInPartnersCapitalRollForward" xlink:to="usac_PartnersCapitalAccountContributionsQuarterlyPeriod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PartnersCapitalAccountContributions" xlink:label="us-gaap_PartnersCapitalAccountContributions" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInPartnersCapitalRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_PartnersCapitalAccountContributions" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_PartnersCapitalAccountAllocationOfPredecessorParentCompanyNetInvestment" xlink:label="usac_PartnersCapitalAccountAllocationOfPredecessorParentCompanyNetInvestment" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInPartnersCapitalRollForward" xlink:to="usac_PartnersCapitalAccountAllocationOfPredecessorParentCompanyNetInvestment" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_PartnersCapitalAccountDeemedDistributionForAdditionalInterestInPredecessorParentCompany" xlink:label="usac_PartnersCapitalAccountDeemedDistributionForAdditionalInterestInPredecessorParentCompany" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInPartnersCapitalRollForward" xlink:to="usac_PartnersCapitalAccountDeemedDistributionForAdditionalInterestInPredecessorParentCompany" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_PartnersCapitalAccountPurchasePriceAllocationAdjustment" xlink:label="usac_PartnersCapitalAccountPurchasePriceAllocationAdjustment" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInPartnersCapitalRollForward" xlink:to="usac_PartnersCapitalAccountPurchasePriceAllocationAdjustment" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PartnersCapitalAccountExchangesAndConversions" xlink:label="us-gaap_PartnersCapitalAccountExchangesAndConversions" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInPartnersCapitalRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_PartnersCapitalAccountExchangesAndConversions" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PartnersCapitalAccountAcquisitions" xlink:label="us-gaap_PartnersCapitalAccountAcquisitions" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInPartnersCapitalRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_PartnersCapitalAccountAcquisitions" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PartnersCapitalAccountSaleOfUnits" xlink:label="us-gaap_PartnersCapitalAccountSaleOfUnits" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInPartnersCapitalRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_PartnersCapitalAccountSaleOfUnits" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_PartnersCapitalAccountIssuanceOfWarrants" xlink:label="usac_PartnersCapitalAccountIssuanceOfWarrants" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="14" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInPartnersCapitalRollForward" xlink:to="usac_PartnersCapitalAccountIssuanceOfWarrants" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_PartnersCapitalAccountUnitBasedCompensationPhantomUnits" xlink:label="usac_PartnersCapitalAccountUnitBasedCompensationPhantomUnits" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="15" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInPartnersCapitalRollForward" xlink:to="usac_PartnersCapitalAccountUnitBasedCompensationPhantomUnits" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PartnersCapitalAccountDistributions" xlink:label="us-gaap_PartnersCapitalAccountDistributions" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="16" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInPartnersCapitalRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_PartnersCapitalAccountDistributions" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueDividendReinvestmentPlan" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueDividendReinvestmentPlan" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="17" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInPartnersCapitalRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueDividendReinvestmentPlan" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_NetIncomeLossAfterBusinessCombinationTransaction" xlink:label="usac_NetIncomeLossAfterBusinessCombinationTransaction" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="18" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInPartnersCapitalRollForward" xlink:to="usac_NetIncomeLossAfterBusinessCombinationTransaction" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.usacompression.com/role/StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfCashFlows" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="00400 - Statement - Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountByClassAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountByClassAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountByClassAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountByClassAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_CommonUnitsMember" xlink:label="usac_CommonUnitsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" xlink:to="usac_CommonUnitsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CapitalUnitClassBMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CapitalUnitClassBMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CapitalUnitClassBMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_PreferredUnitsMember" xlink:label="usac_PreferredUnitsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" xlink:to="usac_PreferredUnitsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProfitLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProfitLoss" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProfitLoss" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DepreciationAndAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_DepreciationAndAmortization" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DepreciationAndAmortization" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_BadDebtExpenseRecovery" xlink:label="usac_BadDebtExpenseRecovery" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="usac_BadDebtExpenseRecovery" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AmortizationOfFinancingCostsAndDiscounts" xlink:label="us-gaap_AmortizationOfFinancingCostsAndDiscounts" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AmortizationOfFinancingCostsAndDiscounts" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxesAndTaxCredits" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxesAndTaxCredits" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxesAndTaxCredits" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfPropertyPlantEquipment" xlink:label="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfPropertyPlantEquipment" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfPropertyPlantEquipment" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ImpairmentOfLongLivedAssetsToBeDisposedOf" xlink:label="us-gaap_ImpairmentOfLongLivedAssetsToBeDisposedOf" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ImpairmentOfLongLivedAssetsToBeDisposedOf" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GoodwillImpairmentLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_GoodwillImpairmentLoss" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_GoodwillImpairmentLoss" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInReceivables" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInReceivables" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInReceivables" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInInventories" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInInventories" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInInventories" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInPrepaidDeferredExpenseAndOtherAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInPrepaidDeferredExpenseAndOtherAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInPrepaidDeferredExpenseAndOtherAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherNoncurrentAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherNoncurrentAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherNoncurrentAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsPayable" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsPayable" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsPayable" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherCurrentLiabilities" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherCurrentLiabilities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherCurrentLiabilities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_IncreaseDecreaseInAccruedLiabilitiesAndDeferredRevenue" xlink:label="usac_IncreaseDecreaseInAccruedLiabilitiesAndDeferredRevenue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract" xlink:to="usac_IncreaseDecreaseInAccruedLiabilitiesAndDeferredRevenue" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromSaleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipment" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromSaleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipment" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromSaleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipment" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromInsuranceSettlementInvestingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromInsuranceSettlementInvestingActivities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromInsuranceSettlementInvestingActivities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsForPreviousAcquisition" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsForPreviousAcquisition" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsForPreviousAcquisition" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CashAcquiredFromAcquisition" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashAcquiredFromAcquisition" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashAcquiredFromAcquisition" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromLinesOfCredit" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromLinesOfCredit" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromLinesOfCredit" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLinesOfCredit" xlink:label="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLinesOfCredit" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLinesOfCredit" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_NetProceedsFromIssuanceOfPreferredUnitsAndWarrants" xlink:label="usac_NetProceedsFromIssuanceOfPreferredUnitsAndWarrants" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract" xlink:to="usac_NetProceedsFromIssuanceOfPreferredUnitsAndWarrants" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_CashPaidForNetSettlementOfUnitBasedAwards" xlink:label="usac_CashPaidForNetSettlementOfUnitBasedAwards" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract" xlink:to="usac_CashPaidForNetSettlementOfUnitBasedAwards" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DistributionMadeToLimitedPartnerCashDistributionsPaid" xlink:label="us-gaap_DistributionMadeToLimitedPartnerCashDistributionsPaid" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DistributionMadeToLimitedPartnerCashDistributionsPaid" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsOfFinancingCosts" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsOfFinancingCosts" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsOfFinancingCosts" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsOfCapitalDistribution" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsOfCapitalDistribution" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsOfCapitalDistribution" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromContributionsFromParent" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromContributionsFromParent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromContributionsFromParent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesContinuingOperationsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsPeriodIncreaseDecrease" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsPeriodIncreaseDecrease" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsPeriodIncreaseDecrease" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowInformationAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowInformationAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowInformationAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InterestPaidNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestPaidNet" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowInformationAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestPaidNet" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxesPaid" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxesPaid" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowInformationAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxesPaid" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CashFlowNoncashInvestingAndFinancingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashFlowNoncashInvestingAndFinancingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashFlowNoncashInvestingAndFinancingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_DistributionMadeToMemberOrLimitedPartnerNonCashDistributionsPaid" xlink:label="usac_DistributionMadeToMemberOrLimitedPartnerNonCashDistributionsPaid" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_CashFlowNoncashInvestingAndFinancingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="usac_DistributionMadeToMemberOrLimitedPartnerNonCashDistributionsPaid" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_NoncashContributionToFromParentCompany" xlink:label="usac_NoncashContributionToFromParentCompany" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_CashFlowNoncashInvestingAndFinancingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="usac_NoncashContributionToFromParentCompany" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_TransfersToFromInventoryToPropertyAndEquipment" xlink:label="usac_TransfersToFromInventoryToPropertyAndEquipment" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_CashFlowNoncashInvestingAndFinancingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="usac_TransfersToFromInventoryToPropertyAndEquipment" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_TransferFromLongTermInstallmentReceivableToShortTerm" xlink:label="usac_TransferFromLongTermInstallmentReceivableToShortTerm" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_CashFlowNoncashInvestingAndFinancingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="usac_TransferFromLongTermInstallmentReceivableToShortTerm" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_TransferFromLongTermLiabilitiesToShortTermLiabilities" xlink:label="usac_TransferFromLongTermLiabilitiesToShortTermLiabilities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_CashFlowNoncashInvestingAndFinancingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="usac_TransferFromLongTermLiabilitiesToShortTermLiabilities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_IncreaseDecreaseInCapitalExpendituresIncurredButNotYetPaid" xlink:label="usac_IncreaseDecreaseInCapitalExpendituresIncurredButNotYetPaid" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_CashFlowNoncashInvestingAndFinancingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="usac_IncreaseDecreaseInCapitalExpendituresIncurredButNotYetPaid" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_DeemedDistributionForAdditionalInterestPredecessor" xlink:label="usac_DeemedDistributionForAdditionalInterestPredecessor" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_CashFlowNoncashInvestingAndFinancingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="usac_DeemedDistributionForAdditionalInterestPredecessor" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_NoncashOrPartNoncashAcquisitionValueOfSharesIssued" xlink:label="usac_NoncashOrPartNoncashAcquisitionValueOfSharesIssued" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_CashFlowNoncashInvestingAndFinancingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="usac_NoncashOrPartNoncashAcquisitionValueOfSharesIssued" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_NoncashOrPartNoncashIssuanceOfCommonUnitsForGeneralPartnershipInterestAndIncentiveDistributionRights" xlink:label="usac_NoncashOrPartNoncashIssuanceOfCommonUnitsForGeneralPartnershipInterestAndIncentiveDistributionRights" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_CashFlowNoncashInvestingAndFinancingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="usac_NoncashOrPartNoncashIssuanceOfCommonUnitsForGeneralPartnershipInterestAndIncentiveDistributionRights" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosureOrganizationAndDescriptionOfBusinessDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40101 - Disclosure - Organization and Description of the Business (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfCapitalUnitsTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfCapitalUnitsTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountByClassAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountByClassAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfCapitalUnitsTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountByClassAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountByClassAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_CommonUnitsMember" xlink:label="usac_CommonUnitsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" xlink:to="usac_CommonUnitsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CapitalUnitClassBMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CapitalUnitClassBMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CapitalUnitClassBMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfCapitalUnitsTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountNameDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountNameDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GeneralPartnerMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_GeneralPartnerMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountNameDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_GeneralPartnerMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LimitedPartnerMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_LimitedPartnerMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountNameDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_LimitedPartnerMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfCapitalUnitsTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_636861888794073301" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain_636861888794073301" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_CDMManagementMember" xlink:label="usac_CDMManagementMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:to="usac_CDMManagementMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_CounterpartyNameAxis" xlink:label="srt_CounterpartyNameAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfCapitalUnitsTable" xlink:to="srt_CounterpartyNameAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain" xlink:label="srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_CounterpartyNameAxis" xlink:to="srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain" xlink:label="srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain_636861888794073301" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="srt_CounterpartyNameAxis" xlink:to="srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain_636861888794073301" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_EnergyTransferEquityLPMember" xlink:label="usac_EnergyTransferEquityLPMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain" xlink:to="usac_EnergyTransferEquityLPMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_EnergyTransferOperatingLpMember" xlink:label="usac_EnergyTransferOperatingLpMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain" xlink:to="usac_EnergyTransferOperatingLpMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TypeOfArrangementAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_TypeOfArrangementAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfCapitalUnitsTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_TypeOfArrangementAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ArrangementsAndNonarrangementTransactionsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ArrangementsAndNonarrangementTransactionsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_TypeOfArrangementAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ArrangementsAndNonarrangementTransactionsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ArrangementsAndNonarrangementTransactionsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ArrangementsAndNonarrangementTransactionsMember_636861888794073301" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_TypeOfArrangementAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ArrangementsAndNonarrangementTransactionsMember_636861888794073301" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_EquityRestructuringAgreementMember" xlink:label="usac_EquityRestructuringAgreementMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ArrangementsAndNonarrangementTransactionsMember" xlink:to="usac_EquityRestructuringAgreementMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfCapitalUnitsTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain_636861888794083302" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain_636861888794083302" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_WorkforceSubjectToCollectiveBargainingArrangementsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_WorkforceSubjectToCollectiveBargainingArrangementsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_WorkforceSubjectToCollectiveBargainingArrangementsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfCapitalUnitsTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain_636861888794093303" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain_636861888794093303" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_UsaCompressionManagementServicesLlcMember" xlink:label="usac_UsaCompressionManagementServicesLlcMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" xlink:to="usac_UsaCompressionManagementServicesLlcMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CapitalUnitLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_CapitalUnitLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_CapitalUnitLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfCapitalUnitsTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LimitedLiabilityCompanyLLCOrLimitedPartnershipLPManagingMemberOrGeneralPartnerOwnershipInterest" xlink:label="us-gaap_LimitedLiabilityCompanyLLCOrLimitedPartnershipLPManagingMemberOrGeneralPartnerOwnershipInterest" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_CapitalUnitLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LimitedLiabilityCompanyLLCOrLimitedPartnershipLPManagingMemberOrGeneralPartnerOwnershipInterest" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2018/dei-2018-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityNumberOfEmployees" xlink:label="dei_EntityNumberOfEmployees" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_CapitalUnitLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityNumberOfEmployees" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferred1" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferred1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_CapitalUnitLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferred1" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionEquityInterestsIssuedOrIssuableNumberOfSharesIssued" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionEquityInterestsIssuedOrIssuableNumberOfSharesIssued" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_CapitalUnitLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionEquityInterestsIssuedOrIssuableNumberOfSharesIssued" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_BusinessAcquisitionEquityInterestsOutstandingNumberOfSharesTransferred" xlink:label="usac_BusinessAcquisitionEquityInterestsOutstandingNumberOfSharesTransferred" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_CapitalUnitLineItems" xlink:to="usac_BusinessAcquisitionEquityInterestsOutstandingNumberOfSharesTransferred" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_BusinessAcquisitionAdditionalEquityInterestIssuedNumberOfShares" xlink:label="usac_BusinessAcquisitionAdditionalEquityInterestIssuedNumberOfShares" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_CapitalUnitLineItems" xlink:to="usac_BusinessAcquisitionAdditionalEquityInterestIssuedNumberOfShares" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireBusinessesGross" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireBusinessesGross" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_CapitalUnitLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireBusinessesGross" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosureBasisOfPresentationAndSignificantAccountingPoliciesPartnershipDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40201 - Disclosure - Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies - Partnership (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_CDMManagementMember" xlink:label="usac_CDMManagementMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:to="usac_CDMManagementMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferred1" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferred1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferred1" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_PartnersCapitalAccountDeemedDistributionForAdditionalInterestInPredecessorParentCompany" xlink:label="usac_PartnersCapitalAccountDeemedDistributionForAdditionalInterestInPredecessorParentCompany" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="usac_PartnersCapitalAccountDeemedDistributionForAdditionalInterestInPredecessorParentCompany" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosureBasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesPropertyAndEquipmentDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40203 - Disclosure - Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Property and Equipment (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_636861888794103304" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_636861888794103304" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PredecessorMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_PredecessorMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_PredecessorMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_636861888794113305" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_636861888794113305" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_OverhaulsAndMajorImprovementsMember" xlink:label="usac_OverhaulsAndMajorImprovementsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="usac_OverhaulsAndMajorImprovementsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GasGatheringAndProcessingEquipmentMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_GasGatheringAndProcessingEquipmentMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_GasGatheringAndProcessingEquipmentMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FurnitureAndFixturesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FurnitureAndFixturesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FurnitureAndFixturesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_VehiclesAndComputerEquipmentMember" xlink:label="usac_VehiclesAndComputerEquipmentMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="usac_VehiclesAndComputerEquipmentMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LeaseholdImprovementsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_LeaseholdImprovementsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_LeaseholdImprovementsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable" xlink:to="srt_RangeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember_636861888794113305" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember_636861888794113305" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_MinimumMember" xlink:label="srt_MinimumMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember" xlink:to="srt_MinimumMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_MaximumMember" xlink:label="srt_MaximumMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember" xlink:to="srt_MaximumMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ImpairmentOfIntangibleAssetsExcludingGoodwill" xlink:label="us-gaap_ImpairmentOfIntangibleAssetsExcludingGoodwill" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ImpairmentOfIntangibleAssetsExcludingGoodwill" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetUsefulLife" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetUsefulLife" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetUsefulLife" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentUsefulLife" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentUsefulLife" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentUsefulLife" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_NumberOfCompressorUnitsThatAreToBeRetiredOrSoldOrReutilized" xlink:label="usac_NumberOfCompressorUnitsThatAreToBeRetiredOrSoldOrReutilized" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:to="usac_NumberOfCompressorUnitsThatAreToBeRetiredOrSoldOrReutilized" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_NumberOfHorsePowerUnitsThatAreToBeRetiredOrSold" xlink:label="usac_NumberOfHorsePowerUnitsThatAreToBeRetiredOrSold" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:to="usac_NumberOfHorsePowerUnitsThatAreToBeRetiredOrSold" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InterestCostsCapitalized" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestCostsCapitalized" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestCostsCapitalized" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_ImpairmentsOfLongLivedAssetsAbstract" xlink:label="usac_ImpairmentsOfLongLivedAssetsAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:to="usac_ImpairmentsOfLongLivedAssetsAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ImpairmentOfLongLivedAssetsHeldForUse" xlink:label="us-gaap_ImpairmentOfLongLivedAssetsHeldForUse" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="usac_ImpairmentsOfLongLivedAssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ImpairmentOfLongLivedAssetsHeldForUse" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GoodwillImpairmentLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_GoodwillImpairmentLoss" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="usac_ImpairmentsOfLongLivedAssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_GoodwillImpairmentLoss" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosureBasisOfPresentationAndSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesFairValueDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40204 - Disclosure - Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Fair Value (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain_636861888794123306" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain_636861888794123306" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel2Member" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel2Member" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel2Member" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementBasisAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementBasisAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementBasisAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementBasisAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember_636861888794123306" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementBasisAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember_636861888794123306" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CarryingReportedAmountFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CarryingReportedAmountFairValueDisclosureMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:to="us-gaap_CarryingReportedAmountFairValueDisclosureMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EstimateOfFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_EstimateOfFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_PortionAtFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" xlink:to="us-gaap_EstimateOfFairValueFairValueDisclosureMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain_636861888794133307" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain_636861888794133307" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SeniorNotesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SeniorNotesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SeniorNotesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueBalanceSheetGroupingFinancialStatementCaptionsLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueBalanceSheetGroupingFinancialStatementCaptionsLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueBalanceSheetGroupingFinancialStatementCaptionsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AssetsFairValueDisclosure" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetsFairValueDisclosure" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueBalanceSheetGroupingFinancialStatementCaptionsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetsFairValueDisclosure" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentCarryingAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentCarryingAmount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueBalanceSheetGroupingFinancialStatementCaptionsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentCarryingAmount" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosureAcquisitionsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40301 - Disclosure - Acquisitions (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_UsaCompressionPartnersLpMember" xlink:label="usac_UsaCompressionPartnersLpMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:to="usac_UsaCompressionPartnersLpMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountByClassAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountByClassAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountByClassAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountByClassAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_PreferredUnitsMember" xlink:label="usac_PreferredUnitsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" xlink:to="usac_PreferredUnitsMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CapitalUnitClassBMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CapitalUnitClassBMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CapitalUnitClassBMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_WarrantMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_WarrantMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_WarrantMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_CommonUnitsMember" xlink:label="usac_CommonUnitsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" xlink:to="usac_CommonUnitsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_PartnersCapitalAccountDeemedDistributionForAdditionalInterestInPredecessorParentCompany" xlink:label="usac_PartnersCapitalAccountDeemedDistributionForAdditionalInterestInPredecessorParentCompany" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems" xlink:to="usac_PartnersCapitalAccountDeemedDistributionForAdditionalInterestInPredecessorParentCompany" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionCostOfAcquiredEntityTransactionCosts" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionCostOfAcquiredEntityTransactionCosts" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionCostOfAcquiredEntityTransactionCosts" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationProFormaInformationRevenueOfAcquireeSinceAcquisitionDateActual" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationProFormaInformationRevenueOfAcquireeSinceAcquisitionDateActual" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationProFormaInformationRevenueOfAcquireeSinceAcquisitionDateActual" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationProFormaInformationEarningsOrLossOfAcquireeSinceAcquisitionDateActual" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationProFormaInformationEarningsOrLossOfAcquireeSinceAcquisitionDateActual" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationProFormaInformationEarningsOrLossOfAcquireeSinceAcquisitionDateActual" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AdministrativeFeesExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdministrativeFeesExpense" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdministrativeFeesExpense" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LimitedLiabilityCompanyLLCOrLimitedPartnershipLPManagingMemberOrGeneralPartnerOwnershipInterest" xlink:label="us-gaap_LimitedLiabilityCompanyLLCOrLimitedPartnershipLPManagingMemberOrGeneralPartnerOwnershipInterest" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LimitedLiabilityCompanyLLCOrLimitedPartnershipLPManagingMemberOrGeneralPartnerOwnershipInterest" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredGoodwillAndLiabilitiesAssumedNetAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredGoodwillAndLiabilitiesAssumedNetAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredGoodwillAndLiabilitiesAssumedNetAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredGoodwillAndLiabilitiesAssumedNetAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedPropertyPlantAndEquipment" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedPropertyPlantAndEquipment" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredGoodwillAndLiabilitiesAssumedNetAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedPropertyPlantAndEquipment" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedOtherNoncurrentAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedOtherNoncurrentAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredGoodwillAndLiabilitiesAssumedNetAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedOtherNoncurrentAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwill" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwill" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredGoodwillAndLiabilitiesAssumedNetAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwill" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredGoodwillAndLiabilitiesAssumedNetAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentLiabilities" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentLiabilities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredGoodwillAndLiabilitiesAssumedNetAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentLiabilities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesLongTermDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesLongTermDebt" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredGoodwillAndLiabilitiesAssumedNetAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesLongTermDebt" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesOther" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesOther" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredGoodwillAndLiabilitiesAssumedNetAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesOther" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedLiabilities" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedLiabilities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredGoodwillAndLiabilitiesAssumedNetAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedLiabilities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredGoodwillAndLiabilitiesAssumedNetAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Goodwill" xlink:label="us-gaap_Goodwill" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredGoodwillAndLiabilitiesAssumedNetAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_Goodwill" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredGoodwillAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredGoodwillAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredGoodwillAndLiabilitiesAssumedNetAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredGoodwillAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferredAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferredAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferredAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_BusinessCombinationCashPaidAtAcquisition" xlink:label="usac_BusinessCombinationCashPaidAtAcquisition" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferredAbstract" xlink:to="usac_BusinessCombinationCashPaidAtAcquisition" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionEquityInterestIssuedOrIssuableValueAssigned" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionEquityInterestIssuedOrIssuableValueAssigned" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferredAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionEquityInterestIssuedOrIssuableValueAssigned" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_BusinessCombinationConversionOfGeneralPartnerInterestForAcquisition" xlink:label="usac_BusinessCombinationConversionOfGeneralPartnerInterestForAcquisition" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferredAbstract" xlink:to="usac_BusinessCombinationConversionOfGeneralPartnerInterestForAcquisition" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_BusinessCombinationPurchasePriceAdjustment" xlink:label="usac_BusinessCombinationPurchasePriceAdjustment" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferredAbstract" xlink:to="usac_BusinessCombinationPurchasePriceAdjustment" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionProFormaInformationAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionProFormaInformationAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionProFormaInformationAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionsProFormaRevenue" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionsProFormaRevenue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionProFormaInformationAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionsProFormaRevenue" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionsProFormaNetIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionsProFormaNetIncomeLoss" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionProFormaInformationAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionsProFormaNetIncomeLoss" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_BusinessAcquisitionsProFormaNetIncomeLossAllocatedToLimitedPartners" xlink:label="usac_BusinessAcquisitionsProFormaNetIncomeLossAllocatedToLimitedPartners" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionProFormaInformationAbstract" xlink:to="usac_BusinessAcquisitionsProFormaNetIncomeLossAllocatedToLimitedPartners" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_BusinessAcquisitionProFormaEarningsPerShareBasicAndDiluted" xlink:label="usac_BusinessAcquisitionProFormaEarningsPerShareBasicAndDiluted" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionProFormaInformationAbstract" xlink:to="usac_BusinessAcquisitionProFormaEarningsPerShareBasicAndDiluted" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationIntegrationRelatedCosts" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationIntegrationRelatedCosts" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionProFormaInformationAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationIntegrationRelatedCosts" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionRelatedCosts" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionRelatedCosts" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionProFormaInformationAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionRelatedCosts" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionEquityInterestsIssuedOrIssuableNumberOfSharesIssued" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionEquityInterestsIssuedOrIssuableNumberOfSharesIssued" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionEquityInterestsIssuedOrIssuableNumberOfSharesIssued" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetUsefulLife" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetUsefulLife" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetUsefulLife" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosureTradeAccountsReceivableDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40401 - Disclosure - Trade Accounts Receivable (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfAccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivableTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfAccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivableTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfAccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivableTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PredecessorMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_PredecessorMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_PredecessorMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccountsNotesAndLoansReceivableLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountsNotesAndLoansReceivableLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountsNotesAndLoansReceivableLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfAccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivableTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsReceivableCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsReceivableCurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountsNotesAndLoansReceivableLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsReceivableCurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsReceivablePeriodIncreaseDecrease" xlink:label="us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsReceivablePeriodIncreaseDecrease" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountsNotesAndLoansReceivableLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsReceivablePeriodIncreaseDecrease" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_BadDebtExpenseReduction" xlink:label="usac_BadDebtExpenseReduction" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountsNotesAndLoansReceivableLineItems" xlink:to="usac_BadDebtExpenseReduction" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosureInstallmentReceivableDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40601 - Disclosure - Installment Receivable (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfAccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivableTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfAccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivableTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfAccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivableTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain_636861888794183312" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain_636861888794183312" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeasesPortfolioSegmentMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeasesPortfolioSegmentMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinancingReceivablePortfolioSegmentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeasesPortfolioSegmentMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_CounterpartyNameAxis" xlink:label="srt_CounterpartyNameAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfAccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivableTable" xlink:to="srt_CounterpartyNameAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain" xlink:label="srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_CounterpartyNameAxis" xlink:to="srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_SuperiorPipelineCompanyAndSuperiorPipelineTexasMember" xlink:label="usac_SuperiorPipelineCompanyAndSuperiorPipelineTexasMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RepurchaseAgreementCounterpartyNameDomain" xlink:to="usac_SuperiorPipelineCompanyAndSuperiorPipelineTexasMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:label="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfAccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivableTable" xlink:to="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:label="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:to="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:label="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_636861888794193313" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:to="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_636861888794193313" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MaintenanceMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_MaintenanceMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_MaintenanceMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfAccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivableTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PredecessorMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_PredecessorMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_PredecessorMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccountsNotesAndLoansReceivableLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountsNotesAndLoansReceivableLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountsNotesAndLoansReceivableLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfAccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivableTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NotesAndLoansReceivableGrossCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_NotesAndLoansReceivableGrossCurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountsNotesAndLoansReceivableLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NotesAndLoansReceivableGrossCurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NotesAndLoansReceivableGrossNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_NotesAndLoansReceivableGrossNoncurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountsNotesAndLoansReceivableLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NotesAndLoansReceivableGrossNoncurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerIncludingAssessedTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerIncludingAssessedTax" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountsNotesAndLoansReceivableLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerIncludingAssessedTax" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_InterestIncomeOnCapitalLeaseTransaction" xlink:label="usac_InterestIncomeOnCapitalLeaseTransaction" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountsNotesAndLoansReceivableLineItems" xlink:to="usac_InterestIncomeOnCapitalLeaseTransaction" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CapitalLeasesIncomeStatementLeaseRevenue" xlink:label="us-gaap_CapitalLeasesIncomeStatementLeaseRevenue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountsNotesAndLoansReceivableLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CapitalLeasesIncomeStatementLeaseRevenue" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosurePropertyAndEquipmentIdentifiableIntangibleAssetsAndGoodwillPropertyAndEquipmentDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40701 - Disclosure - Property And Equipment, Identifiable Intangible Assets and Goodwill - Property and Equipment (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PredecessorMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_PredecessorMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_PredecessorMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable" xlink:to="srt_RangeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_MinimumMember" xlink:label="srt_MinimumMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember" xlink:to="srt_MinimumMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_MaximumMember" xlink:label="srt_MaximumMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember" xlink:to="srt_MaximumMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GasGatheringAndProcessingEquipmentMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_GasGatheringAndProcessingEquipmentMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_GasGatheringAndProcessingEquipmentMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_CompressionEquipmentAcquiredNewMember" xlink:label="usac_CompressionEquipmentAcquiredNewMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_GasGatheringAndProcessingEquipmentMember" xlink:to="usac_CompressionEquipmentAcquiredNewMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_CompressionEquipmentAcquiredUsedMember" xlink:label="usac_CompressionEquipmentAcquiredUsedMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_GasGatheringAndProcessingEquipmentMember" xlink:to="usac_CompressionEquipmentAcquiredUsedMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FurnitureAndFixturesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FurnitureAndFixturesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FurnitureAndFixturesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_VehiclesAndComputerEquipmentMember" xlink:label="usac_VehiclesAndComputerEquipmentMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="usac_VehiclesAndComputerEquipmentMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_VehiclesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_VehiclesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_VehiclesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ComputerEquipmentMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ComputerEquipmentMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ComputerEquipmentMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BuildingMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_BuildingMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_BuildingMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LandMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_LandMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_LandMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LeaseholdImprovementsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_LeaseholdImprovementsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_LeaseholdImprovementsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain_636861888794223316" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain_636861888794223316" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccountsPayableAndAccruedLiabilitiesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountsPayableAndAccruedLiabilitiesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccountsPayableAndAccruedLiabilitiesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ChangeInAccountingEstimateByTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ChangeInAccountingEstimateByTypeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_ChangeInAccountingEstimateByTypeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ChangeInAccountingEstimateTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ChangeInAccountingEstimateTypeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ChangeInAccountingEstimateByTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ChangeInAccountingEstimateTypeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ChangeInAccountingEstimateTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ChangeInAccountingEstimateTypeDomain_636861888794223316" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ChangeInAccountingEstimateByTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ChangeInAccountingEstimateTypeDomain_636861888794223316" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ServiceLifeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ServiceLifeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ChangeInAccountingEstimateTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ServiceLifeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentGross" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentGross" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentGross" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccumulatedDepreciationDepletionAndAmortizationPropertyPlantAndEquipment" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccumulatedDepreciationDepletionAndAmortizationPropertyPlantAndEquipment" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccumulatedDepreciationDepletionAndAmortizationPropertyPlantAndEquipment" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentUsefulLife" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentUsefulLife" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentUsefulLife" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Depreciation" xlink:label="us-gaap_Depreciation" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_Depreciation" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLossPerOutstandingLimitedPartnershipAndGeneralPartnershipUnitBasicAndDiluted" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLossPerOutstandingLimitedPartnershipAndGeneralPartnershipUnitBasicAndDiluted" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLossPerOutstandingLimitedPartnershipAndGeneralPartnershipUnitBasicAndDiluted" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CapitalExpendituresIncurredButNotYetPaid" xlink:label="us-gaap_CapitalExpendituresIncurredButNotYetPaid" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CapitalExpendituresIncurredButNotYetPaid" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupNotDiscontinuedOperationGainLossOnDisposal" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupNotDiscontinuedOperationGainLossOnDisposal" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupNotDiscontinuedOperationGainLossOnDisposal" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosurePropertyAndEquipmentIdentifiableIntangibleAssetsAndGoodwillIntangibleAssetsAndGoodwillDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40702 - Disclosure - Property And Equipment, Identifiable Intangible Assets and Goodwill - Intangible Assets and Goodwill (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfFiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfFiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfFiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PredecessorMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_PredecessorMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_PredecessorMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfFiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain_636861888794243318" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain_636861888794243318" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CustomerRelationshipsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CustomerRelationshipsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CustomerRelationshipsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TradeNamesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_TradeNamesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_TradeNamesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfFiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_UsaCompressionPartnersLpMember" xlink:label="usac_UsaCompressionPartnersLpMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:to="usac_UsaCompressionPartnersLpMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfFiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsRollForward" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsRollForward" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsRollForward" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsGross" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsGross" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsGross" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FinitelivedIntangibleAssetsAcquired1" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinitelivedIntangibleAssetsAcquired1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinitelivedIntangibleAssetsAcquired1" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAccumulatedAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAccumulatedAmortization" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAccumulatedAmortization" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsNet" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsNet" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AmortizationOfIntangibleAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_AmortizationOfIntangibleAssets" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_AmortizationOfIntangibleAssets" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAmortizationExpenseNextTwelveMonths" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAmortizationExpenseNextTwelveMonths" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAmortizationExpenseNextTwelveMonths" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAmortizationExpenseYearTwo" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAmortizationExpenseYearTwo" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAmortizationExpenseYearTwo" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAmortizationExpenseYearThree" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAmortizationExpenseYearThree" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAmortizationExpenseYearThree" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAmortizationExpenseYearFour" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAmortizationExpenseYearFour" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAmortizationExpenseYearFour" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAmortizationExpenseYearFive" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAmortizationExpenseYearFive" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAmortizationExpenseYearFive" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Goodwill" xlink:label="us-gaap_Goodwill" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_Goodwill" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GoodwillImpairmentLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_GoodwillImpairmentLoss" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_GoodwillImpairmentLoss" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosureOtherCurrentAssetsAndOtherCurrentLiabilitiesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40801 - Disclosure - Other Current Assets and Other Current Liabilities (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_OtherCurrentAssetsAndOtherCurrentLiabilitiesTable" xlink:label="usac_OtherCurrentAssetsAndOtherCurrentLiabilitiesTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="usac_OtherCurrentAssetsAndOtherCurrentLiabilitiesTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PredecessorMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_PredecessorMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_PredecessorMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_OtherCurrentAssetsAndOtherCurrentLiabilitiesLineItems" xlink:label="usac_OtherCurrentAssetsAndOtherCurrentLiabilitiesLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="usac_OtherCurrentAssetsAndOtherCurrentLiabilitiesLineItems" xlink:to="usac_OtherCurrentAssetsAndOtherCurrentLiabilitiesTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredCompensationLiabilityCurrentAndNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredCompensationLiabilityCurrentAndNoncurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="usac_OtherCurrentAssetsAndOtherCurrentLiabilitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredCompensationLiabilityCurrentAndNoncurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SalesAndExciseTaxPayableCurrentAndNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_SalesAndExciseTaxPayableCurrentAndNoncurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="usac_OtherCurrentAssetsAndOtherCurrentLiabilitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_SalesAndExciseTaxPayableCurrentAndNoncurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InterestPayableCurrentAndNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestPayableCurrentAndNoncurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="usac_OtherCurrentAssetsAndOtherCurrentLiabilitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestPayableCurrentAndNoncurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_AccruedEquipmentAndOtherAssetPurchases" xlink:label="usac_AccruedEquipmentAndOtherAssetPurchases" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="usac_OtherCurrentAssetsAndOtherCurrentLiabilitiesLineItems" xlink:to="usac_AccruedEquipmentAndOtherAssetPurchases" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccruedBonusesCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccruedBonusesCurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="usac_OtherCurrentAssetsAndOtherCurrentLiabilitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccruedBonusesCurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_AccruedCapitalExpenditures" xlink:label="usac_AccruedCapitalExpenditures" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="usac_OtherCurrentAssetsAndOtherCurrentLiabilitiesLineItems" xlink:to="usac_AccruedCapitalExpenditures" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_AccruedPropertyTaxesCurrent" xlink:label="usac_AccruedPropertyTaxesCurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="usac_OtherCurrentAssetsAndOtherCurrentLiabilitiesLineItems" xlink:to="usac_AccruedPropertyTaxesCurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PrepaidExpenseCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_PrepaidExpenseCurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="usac_OtherCurrentAssetsAndOtherCurrentLiabilitiesLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PrepaidExpenseCurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosureIncomeTaxExpenseDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="40901 - Disclosure - Income Tax Expense (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityNameAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityNameAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityNameAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityNameDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityNameAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityNameDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityNameDomain_636861888794273321" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityNameAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityNameDomain_636861888794273321" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_TexasComptrollerMember" xlink:label="usac_TexasComptrollerMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityNameDomain" xlink:to="usac_TexasComptrollerMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ComponentsOfIncomeTaxExpenseBenefitContinuingOperationsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_ComponentsOfIncomeTaxExpenseBenefitContinuingOperationsAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ComponentsOfIncomeTaxExpenseBenefitContinuingOperationsAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_RevisedTexasFranchiseTax" xlink:label="usac_RevisedTexasFranchiseTax" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ComponentsOfIncomeTaxExpenseBenefitContinuingOperationsAbstract" xlink:to="usac_RevisedTexasFranchiseTax" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_MinimumTaxBasePercentForRevisedTexasFranchiseTax" xlink:label="usac_MinimumTaxBasePercentForRevisedTexasFranchiseTax" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ComponentsOfIncomeTaxExpenseBenefitContinuingOperationsAbstract" xlink:to="usac_MinimumTaxBasePercentForRevisedTexasFranchiseTax" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CurrentIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:label="us-gaap_CurrentIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_ComponentsOfIncomeTaxExpenseBenefitContinuingOperationsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CurrentIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_ComponentsOfIncomeTaxExpenseBenefitContinuingOperationsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_ComponentsOfIncomeTaxExpenseBenefitContinuingOperationsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ComponentsOfDeferredTaxLiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_ComponentsOfDeferredTaxLiabilitiesAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ComponentsOfDeferredTaxLiabilitiesAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilities" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilities" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ComponentsOfDeferredTaxLiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilities" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefits" xlink:label="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefits" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefits" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosureLongTermDebtDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41001 - Disclosure - Long-Term Debt (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevolvingCreditFacilityMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevolvingCreditFacilityMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevolvingCreditFacilityMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SeniorNotesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SeniorNotesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SeniorNotesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_SixthAmendedAndRestatedCreditAgreementMember" xlink:label="usac_SixthAmendedAndRestatedCreditAgreementMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:to="usac_SixthAmendedAndRestatedCreditAgreementMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="srt_RangeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_MinimumMember" xlink:label="srt_MinimumMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember" xlink:to="srt_MinimumMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_MaximumMember" xlink:label="srt_MaximumMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember" xlink:to="srt_MaximumMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_DebtInstrumentCovenantCompliancePeriodAxis" xlink:label="usac_DebtInstrumentCovenantCompliancePeriodAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="usac_DebtInstrumentCovenantCompliancePeriodAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_DebtInstrumentCovenantCompliancePeriodDomain" xlink:label="usac_DebtInstrumentCovenantCompliancePeriodDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="usac_DebtInstrumentCovenantCompliancePeriodAxis" xlink:to="usac_DebtInstrumentCovenantCompliancePeriodDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_DebtInstrumentCovenantCompliancePeriodDomain" xlink:label="usac_DebtInstrumentCovenantCompliancePeriodDomain_636861888794283322" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="usac_DebtInstrumentCovenantCompliancePeriodAxis" xlink:to="usac_DebtInstrumentCovenantCompliancePeriodDomain_636861888794283322" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_CovenantPeriodThreeMember" xlink:label="usac_CovenantPeriodThreeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="usac_DebtInstrumentCovenantCompliancePeriodDomain" xlink:to="usac_CovenantPeriodThreeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_CovenantPeriodFourMember" xlink:label="usac_CovenantPeriodFourMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="usac_DebtInstrumentCovenantCompliancePeriodDomain" xlink:to="usac_CovenantPeriodFourMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_CovenantPeriodFiveMember" xlink:label="usac_CovenantPeriodFiveMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="usac_DebtInstrumentCovenantCompliancePeriodDomain" xlink:to="usac_CovenantPeriodFiveMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LossContingenciesByNatureOfContingencyAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_LossContingenciesByNatureOfContingencyAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_LossContingenciesByNatureOfContingencyAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LossContingencyNatureDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LossContingencyNatureDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesByNatureOfContingencyAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LossContingencyNatureDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LossContingencyNatureDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LossContingencyNatureDomain_636861888794293323" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingenciesByNatureOfContingencyAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LossContingencyNatureDomain_636861888794293323" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StandbyLettersOfCreditMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_StandbyLettersOfCreditMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LossContingencyNatureDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_StandbyLettersOfCreditMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPeriodAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPeriodAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPeriodAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPeriodDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPeriodDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPeriodAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPeriodDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPeriodDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPeriodDomain_636861888794293323" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPeriodAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPeriodDomain_636861888794293323" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPeriodOneMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPeriodOneMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPeriodDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPeriodOneMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPeriodTwoMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPeriodTwoMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPeriodDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPeriodTwoMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPeriodThreeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPeriodThreeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPeriodDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPeriodThreeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPeriodFourMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPeriodFourMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPeriodDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPeriodFourMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPeriodFiveMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPeriodFiveMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPeriodDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPeriodFiveMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_RedemptionRequiredFromHypotheticalChangeOfControlOrRatingsDeclineMember" xlink:label="usac_RedemptionRequiredFromHypotheticalChangeOfControlOrRatingsDeclineMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:to="usac_RedemptionRequiredFromHypotheticalChangeOfControlOrRatingsDeclineMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PredecessorMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_PredecessorMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_PredecessorMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_OwnershipAxis" xlink:label="srt_OwnershipAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="srt_OwnershipAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_OwnershipDomain" xlink:label="srt_OwnershipDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_OwnershipAxis" xlink:to="srt_OwnershipDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_OwnershipDomain" xlink:label="srt_OwnershipDomain_636861888794313325" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="srt_OwnershipAxis" xlink:to="srt_OwnershipDomain_636861888794313325" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_UsaCompressionPartnersLpMember" xlink:label="usac_UsaCompressionPartnersLpMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_OwnershipDomain" xlink:to="usac_UsaCompressionPartnersLpMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtCurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtCurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentCarryingAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentCarryingAmount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentCarryingAmount" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredFinanceCostsNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredFinanceCostsNet" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredFinanceCostsNet" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebt" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebt" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacityPotentialIncreaseAmount" xlink:label="usac_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacityPotentialIncreaseAmount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="usac_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacityPotentialIncreaseAmount" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsOfFinancingCosts" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsOfFinancingCosts" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsOfFinancingCosts" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_LineOfCreditFacilityDistributionRestrictionsBorrowingAvailability" xlink:label="usac_LineOfCreditFacilityDistributionRestrictionsBorrowingAvailability" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="usac_LineOfCreditFacilityDistributionRestrictionsBorrowingAvailability" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_DebtInstrumentCovenantMinimumEBITDAToInterestCoverageRatio" xlink:label="usac_DebtInstrumentCovenantMinimumEBITDAToInterestCoverageRatio" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="usac_DebtInstrumentCovenantMinimumEBITDAToInterestCoverageRatio" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_DebtInstrumentCovenantMaximumFundedDebtToEBITDARatio" xlink:label="usac_DebtInstrumentCovenantMaximumFundedDebtToEBITDARatio" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="usac_DebtInstrumentCovenantMaximumFundedDebtToEBITDARatio" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_DebtInstrumentCovenantIncreaseInMaximumFundedDebtToEBITDARatio" xlink:label="usac_DebtInstrumentCovenantIncreaseInMaximumFundedDebtToEBITDARatio" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="usac_DebtInstrumentCovenantIncreaseInMaximumFundedDebtToEBITDARatio" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_DebtInstrumentCovenantConsecutivePeriodForMaintainingIncreasedMaximumFundedDebtToEBITDARatio" xlink:label="usac_DebtInstrumentCovenantConsecutivePeriodForMaintainingIncreasedMaximumFundedDebtToEBITDARatio" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="usac_DebtInstrumentCovenantConsecutivePeriodForMaintainingIncreasedMaximumFundedDebtToEBITDARatio" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_LineOfCreditFacilityBorrowingBaseAvailable" xlink:label="usac_LineOfCreditFacilityBorrowingBaseAvailable" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="14" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="usac_LineOfCreditFacilityBorrowingBaseAvailable" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityRemainingBorrowingCapacity" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityRemainingBorrowingCapacity" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="15" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityRemainingBorrowingCapacity" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_DebtInstrumentBorrowingBasePercentageCompressionUnits" xlink:label="usac_DebtInstrumentBorrowingBasePercentageCompressionUnits" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="16" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="usac_DebtInstrumentBorrowingBasePercentageCompressionUnits" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateEffectivePercentage" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateEffectivePercentage" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="17" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateEffectivePercentage" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtWeightedAverageInterestRateOverTime" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtWeightedAverageInterestRateOverTime" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="18" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtWeightedAverageInterestRateOverTime" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LettersOfCreditOutstandingAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_LettersOfCreditOutstandingAmount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="19" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LettersOfCreditOutstandingAmount" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPricePercentageOfPrincipalAmountRedeemed" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPricePercentageOfPrincipalAmountRedeemed" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="20" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPricePercentageOfPrincipalAmountRedeemed" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPricePercentage" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPricePercentage" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="21" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPricePercentage" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredFinanceCostsGross" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredFinanceCostsGross" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="22" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredFinanceCostsGross" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPricePercentageOfPrincipalStipulatedAmountOutstandingAfterRedemption" xlink:label="usac_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPricePercentageOfPrincipalStipulatedAmountOutstandingAfterRedemption" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="23" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="usac_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPricePercentageOfPrincipalStipulatedAmountOutstandingAfterRedemption" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_DebtInstrumentStipulationRedemptionWithinNumberOfDaysOfEquityOffering" xlink:label="usac_DebtInstrumentStipulationRedemptionWithinNumberOfDaysOfEquityOffering" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="24" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="usac_DebtInstrumentStipulationRedemptionWithinNumberOfDaysOfEquityOffering" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLinesOfCredit" xlink:label="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLinesOfCredit" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="25" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLinesOfCredit" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_AmountOfIndependentAssetsOrOperations" xlink:label="usac_AmountOfIndependentAssetsOrOperations" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="26" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="usac_AmountOfIndependentAssetsOrOperations" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsidiaryOfLimitedLiabilityCompanyOrLimitedPartnershipOwnershipInterest" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsidiaryOfLimitedLiabilityCompanyOrLimitedPartnershipOwnershipInterest" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="27" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsidiaryOfLimitedLiabilityCompanyOrLimitedPartnershipOwnershipInterest" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AmountOfRestrictedNetAssetsForConsolidatedAndUnconsolidatedSubsidiaries" xlink:label="us-gaap_AmountOfRestrictedNetAssetsForConsolidatedAndUnconsolidatedSubsidiaries" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="28" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AmountOfRestrictedNetAssetsForConsolidatedAndUnconsolidatedSubsidiaries" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtLongtermAndShorttermCombinedAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtLongtermAndShorttermCombinedAmount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="29" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtLongtermAndShorttermCombinedAmount" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosureLongTermDebtFutureMaturitiesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41002 - Disclosure - Long-Term Debt - Future Maturities (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevolvingCreditFacilityMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevolvingCreditFacilityMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevolvingCreditFacilityMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtByMaturityAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtByMaturityAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtByMaturityAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInYearFive" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInYearFive" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongTermDebtByMaturityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInYearFive" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebt" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongTermDebtByMaturityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebt" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosurePreferredUnitsAndWarrantsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41101 - Disclosure - Preferred Units and Warrants (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsidiarySaleOfStockAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsidiarySaleOfStockAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsidiarySaleOfStockAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SaleOfStockNameOfTransactionDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SaleOfStockNameOfTransactionDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsidiarySaleOfStockAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_SaleOfStockNameOfTransactionDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SaleOfStockNameOfTransactionDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SaleOfStockNameOfTransactionDomain_636861888794393333" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsidiarySaleOfStockAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_SaleOfStockNameOfTransactionDomain_636861888794393333" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PrivatePlacementMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_PrivatePlacementMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_SaleOfStockNameOfTransactionDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_PrivatePlacementMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_IssueTrancheOneMember" xlink:label="usac_IssueTrancheOneMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PrivatePlacementMember" xlink:to="usac_IssueTrancheOneMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_IssueTrancheTwoMember" xlink:label="usac_IssueTrancheTwoMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_PrivatePlacementMember" xlink:to="usac_IssueTrancheTwoMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountByClassAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountByClassAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountByClassAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountByClassAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_SeriesPerpetualPreferredUnitsMember" xlink:label="usac_SeriesPerpetualPreferredUnitsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" xlink:to="usac_SeriesPerpetualPreferredUnitsMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_CommonUnitsMember" xlink:label="usac_CommonUnitsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" xlink:to="usac_CommonUnitsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionDomain_636861888794393333" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionDomain_636861888794393333" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_EigGlobalEnergyPartnersMember" xlink:label="usac_EigGlobalEnergyPartnersMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionDomain" xlink:to="usac_EigGlobalEnergyPartnersMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_OnOrAfterAprilTwoTwoThousandTwentyOneMember" xlink:label="usac_OnOrAfterAprilTwoTwoThousandTwentyOneMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:to="usac_OnOrAfterAprilTwoTwoThousandTwentyOneMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_OnOrAfterAprilTwoTwoThousandTwentyTwoMember" xlink:label="usac_OnOrAfterAprilTwoTwoThousandTwentyTwoMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:to="usac_OnOrAfterAprilTwoTwoThousandTwentyTwoMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_OnOrAfterAprilTwoTwoThousandTwentyThreeMember" xlink:label="usac_OnOrAfterAprilTwoTwoThousandTwentyThreeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:to="usac_OnOrAfterAprilTwoTwoThousandTwentyThreeMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_QuarterlyMember" xlink:label="usac_QuarterlyMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:to="usac_QuarterlyMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfPrivatePlacement" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfPrivatePlacement" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfPrivatePlacement" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TemporaryEquitySharesIssued" xlink:label="us-gaap_TemporaryEquitySharesIssued" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_TemporaryEquitySharesIssued" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TemporaryEquityParOrStatedValuePerShare" xlink:label="us-gaap_TemporaryEquityParOrStatedValuePerShare" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_TemporaryEquityParOrStatedValuePerShare" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_NumberOfTranchesOfWarrantIssues" xlink:label="usac_NumberOfTranchesOfWarrantIssues" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="usac_NumberOfTranchesOfWarrantIssues" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightNumberOfSecuritiesCalledByWarrantsOrRights" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightNumberOfSecuritiesCalledByWarrantsOrRights" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightNumberOfSecuritiesCalledByWarrantsOrRights" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightExercisePriceOfWarrantsOrRights1" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightExercisePriceOfWarrantsOrRights1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightExercisePriceOfWarrantsOrRights1" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_TemporaryEquityDistributionAmountPerShare" xlink:label="usac_TemporaryEquityDistributionAmountPerShare" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="usac_TemporaryEquityDistributionAmountPerShare" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_PreferredUnitsConversionOptionPercentageConvertibleIntoCommonUnits" xlink:label="usac_PreferredUnitsConversionOptionPercentageConvertibleIntoCommonUnits" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="usac_PreferredUnitsConversionOptionPercentageConvertibleIntoCommonUnits" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_RedeemablePreferredUnitsIfRedeemedPercentageElectableToBePaidInCommonUnits" xlink:label="usac_RedeemablePreferredUnitsIfRedeemedPercentageElectableToBePaidInCommonUnits" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="usac_RedeemablePreferredUnitsIfRedeemedPercentageElectableToBePaidInCommonUnits" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RedeemableNoncontrollingInterestEquityPreferredCarryingAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_RedeemableNoncontrollingInterestEquityPreferredCarryingAmount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RedeemableNoncontrollingInterestEquityPreferredCarryingAmount" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TemporaryEquityIssuePeriodIncreaseOrDecrease" xlink:label="us-gaap_TemporaryEquityIssuePeriodIncreaseOrDecrease" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_TemporaryEquityIssuePeriodIncreaseOrDecrease" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestInNetIncomeLossPreferredUnitHoldersRedeemable" xlink:label="us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestInNetIncomeLossPreferredUnitHoldersRedeemable" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NoncontrollingInterestInNetIncomeLossPreferredUnitHoldersRedeemable" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_PreferredUnitDistributions" xlink:label="usac_PreferredUnitDistributions" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="14" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="usac_PreferredUnitDistributions" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_ConversionOfStockConversionRateNumeratorValueAddedToUnpaidCashDistributionsOnPreferredUnit" xlink:label="usac_ConversionOfStockConversionRateNumeratorValueAddedToUnpaidCashDistributionsOnPreferredUnit" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="15" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="usac_ConversionOfStockConversionRateNumeratorValueAddedToUnpaidCashDistributionsOnPreferredUnit" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_ConversionOfStockConversionRateDenominatorForEachPreferredUnit" xlink:label="usac_ConversionOfStockConversionRateDenominatorForEachPreferredUnit" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="16" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="usac_ConversionOfStockConversionRateDenominatorForEachPreferredUnit" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_CommonUnitsPotentiallyIssuable" xlink:label="usac_CommonUnitsPotentiallyIssuable" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="17" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="usac_CommonUnitsPotentiallyIssuable" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosurePartnersCapitalDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41201 - Disclosure - Partners' Capital (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfCapitalUnitsTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfCapitalUnitsTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfCapitalUnitsTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountNameDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountNameDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LimitedPartnerMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_LimitedPartnerMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountNameDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_LimitedPartnerMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GeneralPartnerMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_GeneralPartnerMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountNameDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_GeneralPartnerMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountByClassAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountByClassAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfCapitalUnitsTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountByClassAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountByClassAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CapitalUnitClassBMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CapitalUnitClassBMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CapitalUnitClassBMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_CommonUnitsMember" xlink:label="usac_CommonUnitsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" xlink:to="usac_CommonUnitsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfCapitalUnitsTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_EnergyTransferOperatingLpMember" xlink:label="usac_EnergyTransferOperatingLpMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" xlink:to="usac_EnergyTransferOperatingLpMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CapitalUnitLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_CapitalUnitLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_CapitalUnitLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfCapitalUnitsTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PartnersCapitalAccountUnits" xlink:label="us-gaap_PartnersCapitalAccountUnits" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_CapitalUnitLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PartnersCapitalAccountUnits" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LimitedLiabilityCompanyLLCOrLimitedPartnershipLPManagingMemberOrGeneralPartnerOwnershipInterest" xlink:label="us-gaap_LimitedLiabilityCompanyLLCOrLimitedPartnershipLPManagingMemberOrGeneralPartnerOwnershipInterest" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_CapitalUnitLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LimitedLiabilityCompanyLLCOrLimitedPartnershipLPManagingMemberOrGeneralPartnerOwnershipInterest" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosurePartnersCapitalCashDistributionsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41202 - Disclosure - Partners' Capital - Cash Distributions (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfCapitalUnitsTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfCapitalUnitsTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfCapitalUnitsTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountNameDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountNameDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LimitedPartnerMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_LimitedPartnerMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountNameDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_LimitedPartnerMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GeneralPartnerMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_GeneralPartnerMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountNameDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_GeneralPartnerMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountByClassAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountByClassAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfCapitalUnitsTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountByClassAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountByClassAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_SubordinatedAndCommonUnitsMember" xlink:label="usac_SubordinatedAndCommonUnitsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" xlink:to="usac_SubordinatedAndCommonUnitsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_CommonUnitsMember" xlink:label="usac_CommonUnitsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" xlink:to="usac_CommonUnitsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_PhantomUnitholdersMember" xlink:label="usac_PhantomUnitholdersMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" xlink:to="usac_PhantomUnitholdersMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DistributionsMadeToMemberOrLimitedPartnerByDistributionTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_DistributionsMadeToMemberOrLimitedPartnerByDistributionTypeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfCapitalUnitsTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_DistributionsMadeToMemberOrLimitedPartnerByDistributionTypeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DistributionTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DistributionTypeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DistributionsMadeToMemberOrLimitedPartnerByDistributionTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DistributionTypeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DistributionTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DistributionTypeDomain_636861888794483342" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DistributionsMadeToMemberOrLimitedPartnerByDistributionTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DistributionTypeDomain_636861888794483342" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CashDistributionMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashDistributionMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DistributionTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashDistributionMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CapitalUnitLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_CapitalUnitLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_CapitalUnitLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfCapitalUnitsTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DistributionsMadeToMembersOrLimitedPartnersAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DistributionsMadeToMembersOrLimitedPartnersAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_CapitalUnitLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DistributionsMadeToMembersOrLimitedPartnersAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DistributionMadeToLimitedPartnerDistributionsPaidPerUnit" xlink:label="us-gaap_DistributionMadeToLimitedPartnerDistributionsPaidPerUnit" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DistributionsMadeToMembersOrLimitedPartnersAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DistributionMadeToLimitedPartnerDistributionsPaidPerUnit" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DistributionMadeToLimitedLiabilityCompanyLLCMemberCashDistributionsPaid" xlink:label="us-gaap_DistributionMadeToLimitedLiabilityCompanyLLCMemberCashDistributionsPaid" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_DistributionsMadeToMembersOrLimitedPartnersAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DistributionMadeToLimitedLiabilityCompanyLLCMemberCashDistributionsPaid" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_DistributionMadeToMemberOrLimitedPartnerNonCashDistributionsPaid" xlink:label="usac_DistributionMadeToMemberOrLimitedPartnerNonCashDistributionsPaid" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_DistributionsMadeToMembersOrLimitedPartnersAbstract" xlink:to="usac_DistributionMadeToMemberOrLimitedPartnerNonCashDistributionsPaid" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DistributionMadeToLimitedPartnerDistributionsDeclaredPerUnit" xlink:label="us-gaap_DistributionMadeToLimitedPartnerDistributionsDeclaredPerUnit" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_DistributionsMadeToMembersOrLimitedPartnersAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DistributionMadeToLimitedPartnerDistributionsDeclaredPerUnit" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LimitedLiabilityCompanyLLCOrLimitedPartnershipLPMembersOrLimitedPartnersOwnershipInterest" xlink:label="us-gaap_LimitedLiabilityCompanyLLCOrLimitedPartnershipLPMembersOrLimitedPartnersOwnershipInterest" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_DistributionsMadeToMembersOrLimitedPartnersAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LimitedLiabilityCompanyLLCOrLimitedPartnershipLPMembersOrLimitedPartnersOwnershipInterest" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountUnitsIssued" xlink:label="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountUnitsIssued" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_DistributionsMadeToMembersOrLimitedPartnersAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountUnitsIssued" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_CommonUnitsIssuedUnderDistributionReinvestmentPlan" xlink:label="usac_CommonUnitsIssuedUnderDistributionReinvestmentPlan" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_DistributionsMadeToMembersOrLimitedPartnersAbstract" xlink:to="usac_CommonUnitsIssuedUnderDistributionReinvestmentPlan" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosurePartnersCapitalEarningsPerCommonAndSubordinatedUnitIncentiveDistributionRightsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41203 - Disclosure - Partners' Capital - Earnings Per Common and Subordinated Unit &amp; Incentive Distribution Rights (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfCapitalUnitsTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfCapitalUnitsTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfCapitalUnitsTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountNameDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountNameDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GeneralPartnerMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_GeneralPartnerMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountNameDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_GeneralPartnerMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CapitalUnitLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_CapitalUnitLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_CapitalUnitLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfCapitalUnitsTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareAmount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_CapitalUnitLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareAmount" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_IncentiveDistributionRightsAbstract" xlink:label="usac_IncentiveDistributionRightsAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_CapitalUnitLineItems" xlink:to="usac_IncentiveDistributionRightsAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LimitedLiabilityCompanyLLCOrLimitedPartnershipLPManagingMemberOrGeneralPartnerOwnershipInterest" xlink:label="us-gaap_LimitedLiabilityCompanyLLCOrLimitedPartnershipLPManagingMemberOrGeneralPartnerOwnershipInterest" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="usac_IncentiveDistributionRightsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LimitedLiabilityCompanyLLCOrLimitedPartnershipLPManagingMemberOrGeneralPartnerOwnershipInterest" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosurePartnersCapitalEquityOfferingDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41204 - Disclosure - Partners' Capital - Equity Offering (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfCapitalUnitsTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfCapitalUnitsTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfCapitalUnitsTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_636861888794533347" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_636861888794533347" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PhantomShareUnitsPSUsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_PhantomShareUnitsPSUsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_PhantomShareUnitsPSUsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CapitalUnitLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_CapitalUnitLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_CapitalUnitLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfCapitalUnitsTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_EquityOfferingAbstract" xlink:label="usac_EquityOfferingAbstract" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_CapitalUnitLineItems" xlink:to="usac_EquityOfferingAbstract" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LimitedLiabilityCompanyLLCOrLimitedPartnershipLPMembersOrLimitedPartnersOwnershipInterest" xlink:label="us-gaap_LimitedLiabilityCompanyLLCOrLimitedPartnershipLPMembersOrLimitedPartnersOwnershipInterest" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="usac_EquityOfferingAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LimitedLiabilityCompanyLLCOrLimitedPartnershipLPMembersOrLimitedPartnersOwnershipInterest" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareAmount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="usac_EquityOfferingAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareAmount" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosureRevenueRecognitionDisaggregatedRevenueDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41301 - Disclosure - Revenue Recognition (Disaggregated Revenue) (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:label="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" xlink:to="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:label="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:to="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_ContractOperationsRevenueMember" xlink:label="usac_ContractOperationsRevenueMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="usac_ContractOperationsRevenueMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_RetailPartsAndServicesMember" xlink:label="usac_RetailPartsAndServicesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="usac_RetailPartsAndServicesMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TimingOfTransferOfGoodOrServiceAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_TimingOfTransferOfGoodOrServiceAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_TimingOfTransferOfGoodOrServiceAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TimingOfTransferOfGoodOrServiceDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_TimingOfTransferOfGoodOrServiceDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_TimingOfTransferOfGoodOrServiceAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_TimingOfTransferOfGoodOrServiceDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TimingOfTransferOfGoodOrServiceDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_TimingOfTransferOfGoodOrServiceDomain_636861888794533347" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_TimingOfTransferOfGoodOrServiceAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_TimingOfTransferOfGoodOrServiceDomain_636861888794533347" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TransferredAtPointInTimeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_TransferredAtPointInTimeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_TimingOfTransferOfGoodOrServiceDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_TransferredAtPointInTimeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TransferredOverTimeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_TransferredOverTimeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_TimingOfTransferOfGoodOrServiceDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_TransferredOverTimeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_TransferredDuringPrimaryTermMember" xlink:label="usac_TransferredDuringPrimaryTermMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransferredOverTimeMember" xlink:to="usac_TransferredDuringPrimaryTermMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_TransferredMonthToMonthMember" xlink:label="usac_TransferredMonthToMonthMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_TransferredOverTimeMember" xlink:to="usac_TransferredMonthToMonthMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosureRevenueRecognitionDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41302 - Disclosure - Revenue Recognition (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfEntityWideInformationRevenueFromExternalCustomersByProductsAndServicesTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEntityWideInformationRevenueFromExternalCustomersByProductsAndServicesTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEntityWideInformationRevenueFromExternalCustomersByProductsAndServicesTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PredecessorMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_PredecessorMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_PredecessorMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:label="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEntityWideInformationRevenueFromExternalCustomersByProductsAndServicesTable" xlink:to="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:label="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:to="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_ContractOperationsRevenueMember" xlink:label="usac_ContractOperationsRevenueMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="usac_ContractOperationsRevenueMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_RetailPartsAndServicesMember" xlink:label="usac_RetailPartsAndServicesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="usac_RetailPartsAndServicesMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEntityWideInformationRevenueFromExternalCustomersByProductsAndServicesTable" xlink:to="srt_RangeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_MinimumMember" xlink:label="srt_MinimumMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember" xlink:to="srt_MinimumMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_MaximumMember" xlink:label="srt_MaximumMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember" xlink:to="srt_MaximumMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EntityWideInformationRevenueFromExternalCustomerLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_EntityWideInformationRevenueFromExternalCustomerLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_EntityWideInformationRevenueFromExternalCustomerLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEntityWideInformationRevenueFromExternalCustomersByProductsAndServicesTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_TypicalInitialContractTerms" xlink:label="usac_TypicalInitialContractTerms" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_EntityWideInformationRevenueFromExternalCustomerLineItems" xlink:to="usac_TypicalInitialContractTerms" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_ServicesGenerallyBilledNumberOfMonthsInAdvanceOfServiceCommencement" xlink:label="usac_ServicesGenerallyBilledNumberOfMonthsInAdvanceOfServiceCommencement" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_EntityWideInformationRevenueFromExternalCustomerLineItems" xlink:to="usac_ServicesGenerallyBilledNumberOfMonthsInAdvanceOfServiceCommencement" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_PaymentDueAfterReceiptOfInvoice" xlink:label="usac_PaymentDueAfterReceiptOfInvoice" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_EntityWideInformationRevenueFromExternalCustomerLineItems" xlink:to="usac_PaymentDueAfterReceiptOfInvoice" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerAssetNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerAssetNet" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_EntityWideInformationRevenueFromExternalCustomerLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerAssetNet" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsReceivable" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsReceivable" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_EntityWideInformationRevenueFromExternalCustomerLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsReceivable" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiability" xlink:label="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiability" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_EntityWideInformationRevenueFromExternalCustomerLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiability" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityRevenueRecognized" xlink:label="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityRevenueRecognized" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_EntityWideInformationRevenueFromExternalCustomerLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityRevenueRecognized" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CapitalizedContractCostNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_CapitalizedContractCostNet" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_EntityWideInformationRevenueFromExternalCustomerLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CapitalizedContractCostNet" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CapitalizedContractCostAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_CapitalizedContractCostAmortization" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="us-gaap_EntityWideInformationRevenueFromExternalCustomerLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CapitalizedContractCostAmortization" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosureTransactionsWithRelatedPartiesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41401 - Disclosure - Transactions with Related Parties (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfRelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfRelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfRelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PredecessorMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_PredecessorMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_PredecessorMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfRelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_EnergyTransferOperatingLpMember" xlink:label="usac_EnergyTransferOperatingLpMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" xlink:to="usac_EnergyTransferOperatingLpMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_EntitiesAffiliatedWithEnergyTransferPartnersLlcMember" xlink:label="usac_EntitiesAffiliatedWithEnergyTransferPartnersLlcMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" xlink:to="usac_EntitiesAffiliatedWithEnergyTransferPartnersLlcMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_EigManagementCompanyLlcMember" xlink:label="usac_EigManagementCompanyLlcMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" xlink:to="usac_EigManagementCompanyLlcMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfRelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountNameDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountNameDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LimitedPartnerMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_LimitedPartnerMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountNameDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_LimitedPartnerMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GeneralPartnerMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_GeneralPartnerMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_PartnerTypeOfPartnersCapitalAccountNameDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_GeneralPartnerMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_OwnershipAxis" xlink:label="srt_OwnershipAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfRelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyTable" xlink:to="srt_OwnershipAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_OwnershipDomain" xlink:label="srt_OwnershipDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_OwnershipAxis" xlink:to="srt_OwnershipDomain" use="optional" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_OwnershipDomain" xlink:to="usac_EnergyTransferOperatingLpMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TitleOfIndividualAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_TitleOfIndividualAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfRelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_TitleOfIndividualAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TitleOfIndividualWithRelationshipToEntityDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_TitleOfIndividualWithRelationshipToEntityDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_TitleOfIndividualAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_TitleOfIndividualWithRelationshipToEntityDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TitleOfIndividualWithRelationshipToEntityDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_TitleOfIndividualWithRelationshipToEntityDomain_636861888794603354" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_TitleOfIndividualAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_TitleOfIndividualWithRelationshipToEntityDomain_636861888794603354" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_DirectorJerryPetersMember" xlink:label="usac_DirectorJerryPetersMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_TitleOfIndividualWithRelationshipToEntityDomain" xlink:to="usac_DirectorJerryPetersMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfRelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LimitedLiabilityCompanyLLCOrLimitedPartnershipLPMembersOrLimitedPartnersOwnershipInterest" xlink:label="us-gaap_LimitedLiabilityCompanyLLCOrLimitedPartnershipLPMembersOrLimitedPartnersOwnershipInterest" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LimitedLiabilityCompanyLLCOrLimitedPartnershipLPMembersOrLimitedPartnersOwnershipInterest" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromRelatedParties" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueFromRelatedParties" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueFromRelatedParties" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DueFromRelatedPartiesCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_DueFromRelatedPartiesCurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DueFromRelatedPartiesCurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DueToRelatedPartiesCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_DueToRelatedPartiesCurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DueToRelatedPartiesCurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EmployeeBenefitsAndShareBasedCompensation" xlink:label="us-gaap_EmployeeBenefitsAndShareBasedCompensation" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_EmployeeBenefitsAndShareBasedCompensation" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanCostRecognized" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanCostRecognized" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanCostRecognized" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanEmployerMatchingContributionPercentOfMatch" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanEmployerMatchingContributionPercentOfMatch" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanEmployerMatchingContributionPercentOfMatch" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionSellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpensesFromTransactionsWithRelatedParty" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionSellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpensesFromTransactionsWithRelatedParty" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionSellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpensesFromTransactionsWithRelatedParty" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_RightToDesignateNumberOfMembersOfBoard" xlink:label="usac_RightToDesignateNumberOfMembersOfBoard" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionLineItems" xlink:to="usac_RightToDesignateNumberOfMembersOfBoard" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_RequirementForPercentageOfOutstandingCommonUnitsHeldByPreferredUnitsForBoardMemberDesignation" xlink:label="usac_RequirementForPercentageOfOutstandingCommonUnitsHeldByPreferredUnitsForBoardMemberDesignation" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionLineItems" xlink:to="usac_RequirementForPercentageOfOutstandingCommonUnitsHeldByPreferredUnitsForBoardMemberDesignation" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosureUnitBasedCompensationDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41501 - Disclosure - Unit-based Compensation (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PredecessorMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_PredecessorMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_PredecessorMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_EnergyTransferOperatingLpMember" xlink:label="usac_EnergyTransferOperatingLpMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" xlink:to="usac_EnergyTransferOperatingLpMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain_636861888794653359" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain_636861888794653359" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_LongTermIncentivePlanMember" xlink:label="usac_LongTermIncentivePlanMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" xlink:to="usac_LongTermIncentivePlanMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TitleOfIndividualAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_TitleOfIndividualAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_TitleOfIndividualAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TitleOfIndividualWithRelationshipToEntityDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_TitleOfIndividualWithRelationshipToEntityDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_TitleOfIndividualAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_TitleOfIndividualWithRelationshipToEntityDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_ExecutiveOfficersEmployeesAndIndependentDirectorsMember" xlink:label="usac_ExecutiveOfficersEmployeesAndIndependentDirectorsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_TitleOfIndividualWithRelationshipToEntityDomain" xlink:to="usac_ExecutiveOfficersEmployeesAndIndependentDirectorsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_EmployeesMember" xlink:label="usac_EmployeesMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_TitleOfIndividualWithRelationshipToEntityDomain" xlink:to="usac_EmployeesMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PhantomShareUnitsPSUsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_PhantomShareUnitsPSUsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_PhantomShareUnitsPSUsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_SunocoLogisticsPartnersL.p.Member" xlink:label="usac_SunocoLogisticsPartnersL.p.Member" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:to="usac_SunocoLogisticsPartnersL.p.Member" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_RegencyEnergyPartnersL.p.Member" xlink:label="usac_RegencyEnergyPartnersL.p.Member" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:to="usac_RegencyEnergyPartnersL.p.Member" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_VestingAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_VestingAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_VestingAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_VestingDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_VestingDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_VestingAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_VestingDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_VestingDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_VestingDomain_636861888794693363" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_VestingAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_VestingDomain_636861888794693363" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationAwardTrancheOneMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationAwardTrancheOneMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_VestingDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationAwardTrancheOneMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationAwardTrancheTwoMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationAwardTrancheTwoMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_VestingDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationAwardTrancheTwoMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingRightsPercentage" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingRightsPercentage" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingRightsPercentage" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAuthorized" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAuthorized" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAuthorized" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfAdditionalSharesAuthorized" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfAdditionalSharesAuthorized" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfAdditionalSharesAuthorized" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingPeriod1" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingPeriod1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingPeriod1" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredCompensationLiabilityCurrentAndNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredCompensationLiabilityCurrentAndNoncurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredCompensationLiabilityCurrentAndNoncurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AllocatedShareBasedCompensationExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_AllocatedShareBasedCompensationExpense" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AllocatedShareBasedCompensationExpense" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_CashPaidForNetSettlementOfUnitBasedAwards" xlink:label="usac_CashPaidForNetSettlementOfUnitBasedAwards" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="8" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="usac_CashPaidForNetSettlementOfUnitBasedAwards" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_BusinessCombinationUnitForUnitExchangeRatio" xlink:label="usac_BusinessCombinationUnitForUnitExchangeRatio" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="9" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="usac_BusinessCombinationUnitForUnitExchangeRatio" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedRollForward" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedRollForward" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="10" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedRollForward" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedInPeriod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedInPeriod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsAssumedInPeriod" xlink:label="usac_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsAssumedInPeriod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedRollForward" xlink:to="usac_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsAssumedInPeriod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValueRollForward" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValueRollForward" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="11" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValueRollForward" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValueRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValueRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValueRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeituresWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeituresWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValueRollForward" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeituresWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsAssumedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="usac_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsAssumedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValueRollForward" xlink:to="usac_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsAssumedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsTotalCompensationCostNotYetRecognizedShareBasedAwardsOtherThanOptions" xlink:label="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsTotalCompensationCostNotYetRecognizedShareBasedAwardsOtherThanOptions" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="12" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsTotalCompensationCostNotYetRecognizedShareBasedAwardsOtherThanOptions" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsTotalCompensationCostNotYetRecognizedPeriodForRecognition1" xlink:label="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsTotalCompensationCostNotYetRecognizedPeriodForRecognition1" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="13" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsTotalCompensationCostNotYetRecognizedPeriodForRecognition1" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodTotalFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodTotalFairValue" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="14" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodTotalFairValue" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosureEmployeeBenefitPlansDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41601 - Disclosure - Employee Benefit Plans (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain_636861888794773371" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain_636861888794773371" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_DefinedContribution401KPlanMember" xlink:label="usac_DefinedContribution401KPlanMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain" xlink:to="usac_DefinedContribution401KPlanMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_EnergyTransferOperatingLpMember" xlink:label="usac_EnergyTransferOperatingLpMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" xlink:to="usac_EnergyTransferOperatingLpMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanDisclosureLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanDisclosureLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanDisclosureLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanMaximumAnnualContributionsPerEmployeePercent" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanMaximumAnnualContributionsPerEmployeePercent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanDisclosureLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanMaximumAnnualContributionsPerEmployeePercent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanMaximumAnnualContributionsPerEmployeeAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanMaximumAnnualContributionsPerEmployeeAmount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanDisclosureLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanMaximumAnnualContributionsPerEmployeeAmount" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanEmployerDiscretionaryContributionAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanEmployerDiscretionaryContributionAmount" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanDisclosureLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanEmployerDiscretionaryContributionAmount" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingenciesPurchaseCommitmentsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41702 - Disclosure - Commitments and Contingencies - Purchase Commitments (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PurchaseCommitmentExcludingLongtermCommitmentTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_PurchaseCommitmentExcludingLongtermCommitmentTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PurchaseCommitmentExcludingLongtermCommitmentTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_EnergyTransferOperatingLpMember" xlink:label="usac_EnergyTransferOperatingLpMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" xlink:to="usac_EnergyTransferOperatingLpMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PurchaseCommitmentExcludingLongtermCommitmentTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PurchaseCommitmentRemainingMinimumAmountCommitted" xlink:label="us-gaap_PurchaseCommitmentRemainingMinimumAmountCommitted" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PurchaseCommitmentRemainingMinimumAmountCommitted" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrentAndNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrentAndNoncurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrentAndNoncurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DueFromRelatedPartiesCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_DueFromRelatedPartiesCurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DueFromRelatedPartiesCurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_NumberOfMajorCustomers" xlink:label="usac_NumberOfMajorCustomers" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsLineItems" xlink:to="usac_NumberOfMajorCustomers" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SalesAndExciseTaxPayableCurrentAndNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_SalesAndExciseTaxPayableCurrentAndNoncurrent" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="6" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_SalesAndExciseTaxPayableCurrentAndNoncurrent" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_ProceedsFromSalesTaxRefunds" xlink:label="usac_ProceedsFromSalesTaxRefunds" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="7" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsLineItems" xlink:to="usac_ProceedsFromSalesTaxRefunds" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosureRecentAccountingPronouncementsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41801 - Disclosure - Recent Accounting Pronouncements (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AdjustmentsForNewAccountingPronouncementsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdjustmentsForNewAccountingPronouncementsAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdjustmentsForNewAccountingPronouncementsAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TypeOfAdoptionMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_TypeOfAdoptionMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsForNewAccountingPronouncementsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_TypeOfAdoptionMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TypeOfAdoptionMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_TypeOfAdoptionMember_636861888794803374" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsForNewAccountingPronouncementsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_TypeOfAdoptionMember_636861888794803374" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccountingStandardsUpdate201602Member" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountingStandardsUpdate201602Member" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_TypeOfAdoptionMember" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccountingStandardsUpdate201602Member" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="srt_RangeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2018/elts/srt-2018-01-31.xsd#srt_MaximumMember" xlink:label="srt_MaximumMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember" xlink:to="srt_MaximumMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioForecastMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioForecastMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioForecastMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseRightOfUseAsset" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseRightOfUseAsset" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseRightOfUseAsset" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiability" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiability" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiability" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosureSubsequentEventsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="41901 - Disclosure - Subsequent Events (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain_636861888794823376" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain_636861888794823376" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_LongTermIncentivePlanMember" xlink:label="usac_LongTermIncentivePlanMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" xlink:to="usac_LongTermIncentivePlanMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PhantomShareUnitsPSUsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_PhantomShareUnitsPSUsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_PhantomShareUnitsPSUsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_VestingAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_VestingAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_VestingAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_VestingDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_VestingDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_VestingAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_VestingDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_VestingDecemberFiveTwoThousandTwentyOneMember" xlink:label="usac_VestingDecemberFiveTwoThousandTwentyOneMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_VestingDomain" xlink:to="usac_VestingDecemberFiveTwoThousandTwentyOneMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_VestingDecemberFiveTwoThousandTwentyThreeMember" xlink:label="usac_VestingDecemberFiveTwoThousandTwentyThreeMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_VestingDomain" xlink:to="usac_VestingDecemberFiveTwoThousandTwentyThreeMember" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_NumberOfIndependentDirectors" xlink:label="usac_NumberOfIndependentDirectors" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" xlink:to="usac_NumberOfIndependentDirectors" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingRightsPercentage" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingRightsPercentage" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingRightsPercentage" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.usacompression.com/role/DisclosureSelectedQuarterlyFinancialDataUnauditedDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="42001 - Disclosure - Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountByClassAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountByClassAxis" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountByClassAxis" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountByClassAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="usac-20181231.xsd#usac_CommonUnitsMember" xlink:label="usac_CommonUnitsMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" xlink:to="usac_CommonUnitsMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CapitalUnitClassBMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CapitalUnitClassBMember" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_LimitedPartnersCapitalAccountClassDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CapitalUnitClassBMember" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" order="1" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" use="optional" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xbrldt:closed="true" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Revenues" xlink:label="us-gaap_Revenues" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="2" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_Revenues" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GrossProfit" xlink:label="us-gaap_GrossProfit" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="3" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_GrossProfit" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="4" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" priority="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2018/elts/us-gaap-2018-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLossPerOutstandingLimitedPartnershipAndGeneralPartnershipUnitBasicAndDiluted" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLossPerOutstandingLimitedPartnershipAndGeneralPartnershipUnitBasicAndDiluted" />
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" order="5" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLossPerOutstandingLimitedPartnershipAndGeneralPartnershipUnitBasicAndDiluted" priority="1" use="optional" />
  </definitionLink>
</link:linkbase>


