requite

UK: rɪˈkwaɪt | US: rɪˈkwaɪt

Definition
  1. vt. to make repayment or return for (a service, kindness, etc.)

  2. vt. to retaliate or avenge (a wrong, injury, etc.)

  3. vt. to respond to (a feeling, action, etc.) with a corresponding one

Structure
re <back, again>quite <free, clear>re <back, again>quite <free, clear>
Etymology

"Requite" originated in Middle English from the prefix "re-" (again) combined with "quite" (to settle or repay). The word originally implied settling a debt or returning a favor, evolving to encompass broader meanings of reciprocation or retaliation. The logic reflects balancing an action—whether positive (repayment) or negative (revenge).

Examples
  1. She sought to requite his kindness with a heartfelt gift.

  2. The hero vowed to requite the villain’s betrayal with justice.

  3. Love should not be measured by how one can requite it.

  4. He failed to requite the trust placed in him.

  5. The novel explores how characters requite loyalty and deceit.