reciprocation

American  

[ri-sip-ruh-key-shuhn] / rɪˌsɪp rəˈkeɪ ʃən /

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.

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Usage

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.

Etymology

Origin of reciprocation

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

Example Sentences

Finally, seek forgiveness without expecting reciprocation, says Moore, author of “Peaceful Discipline.”

From MarketWatch

But due to a lack of reciprocation in public by the men in question, she was often humiliated, with the press using unsavoury headlines to describe her.

From BBC

After years of collaborating with others, Akers is starting to feel reciprocation from her community with the opening of Saint Helen’s House.

From Los Angeles Times

Peruvians can still avoid the Darien jungle by flying to El Salvador, which introduced visa-free travel for them in December in reciprocation for a similar move by Peru’s government.

From Seattle Times

Museum loans are typically made in expectation of future reciprocation, but obviously not this one.

From Los Angeles Times