Reciprocate Meaning

Reciprocate

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. To give or respond in return for something received.
2. To show or feel the same feeling or action toward someone as they have shown or done.
3. To interchange or exchange actions, gestures, or feelings mutually.
4. In mechanics, to move back and forth in a straight line.

History and Origin

The word “reciprocate” comes from the Latin reciprocatus, the past participle of reciprocare, meaning “to move back and forth.” This is derived from reciprocus, meaning “returning” or “alternating.” It entered English in the 17th century and has been used to describe mutual exchanges of feelings, actions, or movements.

Detailed Explanation

“Reciprocate” refers to the act of returning a gesture, feeling, or action with a corresponding one. In personal relationships, it often means responding to kindness, love, or effort with a similar level of appreciation or emotion. In professional settings, it can involve returning favors or support. The term also applies in physical contexts, describing back-and-forth movements, such as in machinery or tools. The concept emphasizes mutuality and balance in interactions.

Example Sentences

1. She smiled at him, hoping he would reciprocate her feelings.
2. When someone does you a favor, it’s polite to reciprocate with gratitude.
3. The countries agreed to reciprocate trade benefits for mutual growth.
4. He helped me with my project, and I plan to reciprocate by assisting him next time.
5. The machine’s parts reciprocate to create the required motion.
6. Their kind gestures made it easy to reciprocate with friendship.
7. He was disappointed when his love was not reciprocated.
8. The two organizations decided to reciprocate their support during challenging times.
9. The reciprocating saw moves back and forth to cut through materials.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Repay – To return a favor or act of kindness.
2. Return – To give something back in response to a similar action.
3. Exchange – To give something in return for something received.
4. Match – To respond to an action with an equivalent one.
5. Respond – To react or reply to something in kind.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Mutual – Shared or given equally between two or more parties.
2. Interchange – The act of exchanging things reciprocally.
3. Correspond – To match or be in harmony with something.
4. Recompense – To compensate or make amends for a service or loss.
5. Equitable – Fair and balanced, often implying reciprocity.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Reciprocity – The practice of exchanging things for mutual benefit.
2. Symmetry – A balanced and mutual relationship.
3. Complement – To complete or enhance something reciprocally.
4. Cooperate – To work together for a mutual purpose.
5. Contribute – To give something in response to or for a shared goal.

Antonyms

1. Ignore
2. Neglect
3. Reject
4. Oppose
5. Withhold