reciprocate

verb

re·​cip·​ro·​cate ri-ˈsi-prə-ˌkāt 

reciprocated; reciprocating

transitive verb

1

: to give and take mutually

2

: to return in kind or degree

reciprocate a compliment gracefully

intransitive verb

1

: to make a return for something

we hope to reciprocate for your kindness

2

: to move forward and backward alternately

a reciprocating valve

reciprocator

ri-ˈsi-prə-ˌkā-tər 

noun

Did you know?

Reciprocate implies a mutual or equivalent exchange or a paying back of what one has received (as in "We appreciate you hosting us and we will reciprocate you for your kindness"). The word comes from Latin reciprocus, meaning "returning the same way."

Synonyms

• recompense
• repay
• requite

Choose the Right Synonym for reciprocate

reciprocate, retaliate, requite, return mean to give back usually in kind or in quantity.

reciprocate implies a mutual or equivalent exchange or a paying back of what one has received.

reciprocated their hospitality by inviting them for a visit

retaliate usually implies a paying back of injury in exact kind, often vengefully.

the enemy retaliated by executing their prisoners

requite implies a paying back according to one's preference and often not equivalently.

requited her love with cold indifference

return implies a paying or giving back.

returned their call

return good for evil

Examples of reciprocate in a Sentence

Individuals who have received a dedication … are expected to reciprocate with a gift, perhaps placing a few folded notes of money into the hat when they give it back. —A. L. Kennedy, On Bullfighting, 1999

When he entered the room … Agnes was conscious of a latent feeling which secretly reciprocated Henry's unconcealed pleasure on meeting her again. —Wilkie Collins, The Haunted Hotel, 1878

Thus expressing himself, the little lawyer gave Mr. Winkle a poke in the chest, which that gentleman reciprocated; after which they both laughed very loudly … —Charles Dickens, The Pickwick Papers, 1837

They appreciated her kindness but were not ready to reciprocate the gesture.

reciprocated the favor by driving their neighbor to the airport

Recent Examples on the Web

That sense of commitment is pivotal to a Capricorn, Kelly adds, but it must be reciprocated. —Olivia Munson, USA TODAY, 22 Dec. 2024

Even more moving is seeing Charlie's kindness reciprocated in ways that leave him feeling truly seen. —Andrea Wurzburger, People.com, 22 Dec. 2024

To the surprise of no one, apart from seemingly the International Cricket Council who didn't appear ready for a contingency, India refused to travel to Pakistan, who obviously were displeased and threatened to reciprocate at the 2026 T20 World Cup in India. —Tristan Lavalette, Forbes, 20 Dec. 2024

Carla's kindness was reciprocated by her customers many times. —Keith Pandolfi, The Enquirer, 17 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

see reciprocal entry 1

First Known Use

1607, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense

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Kids Definition

reciprocate

verb

re·​cip·​ro·​cate ri-ˈsip-rə-ˌkāt 

reciprocated; reciprocating

1

: to give and take mutually : exchange

2

: to make a return for something

reciprocate a favor

reciprocation

ri-ˌsip-rə-ˈkā-shən

noun