mutuality

American  

[myoo-choo-al-i-tee] / ˌmyu tʃuˈæl ɪ ti /

noun

1. condition or quality of being mutual; reciprocity; mutual dependence.

---

Other Word Forms

• nonmutuality noun

Etymology

Origin of mutuality

First recorded in 1580–90; mutual + -ity

Explanation

Mutuality is a positive, interactive relationship between people. The mutuality between you and your co-workers at the ice cream shop means there's good communication and a sense of understanding. You could also use the term reciprocity or cooperation instead of mutuality. There's an inherent sense of give-and-take or respect when there's mutuality in a relationship. The word comes from mutual and its original definition, "given and received in a reciprocal way." If you have a relationship that works well, whether it's with your favorite teacher or your best friend, it's undoubtedly because of mutuality.

Example Sentences

In its most stripped-down definition, mutuality is about knowing that in a relationship both people have needs and that each person’s needs matter.

From Slate • Mar. 23, 2025

Giving Tuesday, as one of the movement’s leaders put it, promotes “generosity not as a benevolence that the haves show to the have-nots but rather an expression of mutuality, solidarity and reciprocity.”

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 28, 2023

Recognizing our mutuality is powerful, as is the recognition that our futures are deeply tied to the communities furthest from justice.

From Seattle Times • Apr. 3, 2023

That there is a spirit of mutuality and solidarity, and that we’re inclusive and that we also share resources.

From New York Times • Feb. 18, 2022

Perhaps Blaine resented this mutuality, something primally African from which he felt excluded.

From "Americanah" by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

Related Words

• reciprocity
• sincerity