English Lexicon

Reciprocity

/ˌres.ɪˈprɒs.ə.ti/
nounCEFR C1 (Advanced)Top #6500 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As noun
  1. 1

    The practice of exchanging things with others for mutual benefit, especially privileges or a sense of shared sentiment.

    "A healthy relationship is built on a foundation of emotional reciprocity and mutual respect."
  2. 2

    The state or feeling of having the same emotional response towards someone that they have directed at you.

    "He hoped for reciprocity after confessing his deep affection, but she remained silent."

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Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

Derived from the Latin word 'reciprocus', meaning 'returning' or 'alternating', which traces back to the roots 're-' (back) and 'procus' (forward). It entered English in the late 16th century via French, evolving to describe mutual exchange and the psychological or social dynamic of returning feelings or actions in kind.

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