reciprocation

[ri-sip-ruh-key-shuhn]

noun

1. an act or instance of reciprocating.

2. a returning, usually for something given.

3. a mutual giving and receiving.

4. the state of being reciprocal or corresponding.

Word History and Origins

Origin of reciprocation¹

First recorded in 1520–30, reciprocation is from the Latin word reciprocātiōn- (stem of reciprocātiō ). See reciprocate, -ion

When To Use

What does reciprocation mean?

Reciprocation is the act of reciprocating—doing something in response to an action in a way that corresponds or is somehow equivalent to that action.Reciprocation can also refer to a specific instance of doing this, as in This gift is reciprocation for all your support. A much more informal way of saying this is returning the favor.Reciprocation is often positive. For example, when you are shown affection by a loved one, you can reciprocate (or show reciprocation) by showing affection back. When someone does you a favor, you can reciprocate by doing something nice for them. However, reciprocation can also be negative. For example, if someone insults you, your reciprocation may take the form of insulting them back or doing something else to get back at them.Actions or relationships involving reciprocation can be described as reciprocal. The related word reciprocity often refers to a reciprocal state or relation, or to the mutual exchange of things. Reciprocation can be used as a synonym for these senses of reciprocity.Example: I thought my neighbors’ help with my garden deserved reciprocation, so I made dinner for them.