reciprocate
UK: /rɪˈsɪprəkeɪt/ | US: /rɪˈsɪprəkeɪt/
vt. to give or take mutually; to return in kind or degree
vi. to make a return for something; to alternate in direction
reciprocate = re<back> + ciproc<take> + ate<verb suffix>
- re: Latin prefix meaning "back" or "again."
- ciproc: Derived from Latin ciprocus (variant of pro- + capere "to take"), implying mutual exchange.
- ate: Verb-forming suffix indicating action.
Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to Latin reciprocus ("moving backward and forward"), combining re- ("back") and pro- ("forward") with capere ("to take"). It originally described alternating motion (e.g., tides) before evolving to denote mutual exchange in actions or feelings.
She helped me move, so I reciprocated by fixing her car.
The treaty requires both nations to reciprocate trade benefits.
His kindness was never reciprocated.
The engine’s pistons reciprocate rapidly.
In diplomacy, gestures of goodwill must often be reciprocated.