Definition of reciprocate

< reciprocal pronoun

reciprocating engine >

re·cip·ro·cate    (r-spr-kt) KEY 

VERB:
re·cip·ro·cat·ed, re·cip·ro·cat·ing, re·cip·ro·cates
VERB:
tr.

1. To give or take mutually; interchange.
2. To show, feel, or give in response or return.

VERB:
intr.

1. To move back and forth alternately.
2. To give and take something mutually.
3. To make a return for something given or done.
4. To be complementary or equivalent.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Latin reciprocre, reciproct-, to move back and forth, from reciprocus, alternating ; see reciprocal

OTHER FORMS:
re·cipro·cative(Adjective), re·cipro·cator(Noun)

SYNONYMS:
reciprocate, requite, return

These verbs mean to give, take, or feel reciprocally: doesn't reciprocate favors; consideration requited with disregard; return a compliment.