mutual

UK: ˈmjuːtʃuəl | US: ˈmjuːtʃuəl

Definition

  1. adj. shared by or involving two or more parties

  2. adj. experienced or done by each of two or more parties toward the other

  3. adj. (of a feeling or action) reciprocal

Structure
mut <change, exchange>ual <adjective suffix>mut <change, exchange>ual <adjective suffix>
Etymology

The word "mutual" traces back to Latin mutuus, originally meaning "borrowed" or "reciprocal," reflecting the idea of exchange or shared action. Over time, it evolved in Middle French as mutuel before entering English in the 15th century, retaining its core sense of reciprocity. The morpheme mut captures the concept of change or exchange, while -ual turns it into an adjective describing a shared relationship.

Examples

  1. Their mutual respect strengthened their partnership.

  2. The agreement was based on mutual benefits.

  3. We have a mutual friend in common.

  4. Mutual understanding is key to resolving conflicts.

  5. They parted ways by mutual consent.