reciprocity

noun

rec·​i·​proc·​i·​ty ˌre-sə-ˈprä-s(ə-)tē 

plural reciprocities

1

: the quality or state of being reciprocal : mutual dependence, action, or influence

2

: a mutual exchange of privileges

specifically : a recognition by one of two countries or institutions of the validity of licenses or privileges granted by the other

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between reciprocity and endorsement?

Each of these words has multiple meanings, some of which are similar, and others of which are not. Reciprocity may mean "a mutual exchange of privileges" and is often applied to things such as professional certification (neighboring states may have a reciprocal agreement so that certification a worker needs is applicable in each). Endorsement may mean "sanction, approval" or simply refer to "the act or process of endorsing."

Can reciprocity be mutual?

Reciprocal and mutual share a good deal of meaning; the former may be defined as "shared, felt, or shown by both sides," and the latter as "shared in common." Based on this semantic overlap some usage guides caution against using any form of the two words (mutually reciprocal, or mutual reciprocity) together, on the grounds that it is redundant.

Is reciprocity a noun or verb?

Reciprocity is a noun. The verb form of the word is reciprocate; the adjective is reciprocal, and the adverb is reciprocally.

Examples of reciprocity in a Sentence

Grownups know that little things matter … and that relationships are based on respect and reciprocity. —Margaret Carlson, Time, 4 June 2001

Introduced in the McKinley Tariff of 1890, reciprocity gave the president authority to remove items from the free list if their countries of origin placed unreasonable tariffs on American goods. —Mary Beth Norton et al., A People and a Nation, 1988

Indeed when they talked on an indifferent subject, as now, there was ever a second silent conversation passing between their emotions, so perfect was the reciprocity between them. —Thomas Hardy, Jude the Obscure, 1895

The proposal calls for reciprocity in trade relations.

Recent Examples on the Web

From there, consistency is key—offer meaningful opportunities to engage, provide clear value and foster reciprocity. —Expert Panel®, Forbes, 20 Feb. 2025

And then comes the necessity for stimulation, variety, and reciprocity. —Hans-Ulrich Obrist, Artforum, 1 Feb. 2025

With a reciprocity provision, property rights could support economic development as commercial companies around the world begin to look to outer space as the next big area of economic growth. —Wayne N White Jr, The Conversation, 31 Jan. 2025

That can be accomplished by removing yourself from situations that lack reciprocity and placing yourself in environments that are more well-connected and intentional. —Meghan Rose, Glamour, 1 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

see reciprocal entry 1

First Known Use

1753, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for reciprocity

• animosity
• curiosity
• generosity
• grandiosity
• nebulosity
• tortuosity
• tuberosity
• virtuosity
• atrocity
• ferocity
• monstrosity
• pomposity

Kids Definition

reciprocity

noun

rec·​i·​proc·​i·​ty ˌres-ə-ˈpräs-ət-ē 

plural reciprocities

1

: shared dependence, cooperation, or exchange between persons, groups, or states

2

: an exchange of commercial benefits between countries

Legal Definition

reciprocity

noun

rec·​i·​proc·​i·​ty ˌre-sə-ˈprä-sə-tē 

plural reciprocities

1

: the quality or state of being reciprocal

2

: the exchange, recognition, or enforcement of licenses, privileges, or obligations between states of the U.S. or between nations