v.
Pronunciation: ri- ' si-pr ə - ˌ k ā t
Function: verb
Inflected Form: -cat · ed ; -cat · ing
Date: 1607
transitive verb
1 : to give and take mutually
2 : to return in kind or degree < reciprocate a compliment gracefully>
intransitive verb
1 : to make a return for something <we hope to reciprocate for your kindness>
2 : to move forward and backward alternately <a reciprocating valve>
– re · cip · ro · ca · tor \ - ˌ k ā -t ə r \ noun
synonyms RECIPROCATE , RETALIATE , REQUITE , RETURN mean to give back usually in kind or in quantity. RECIPROCATE implies a mutual or equivalent exchange or a paying back of what one has received < reciprocated their hospitality by inviting them for a visit>. RETALIATE usually implies a paying back of injury in exact kind, often vengefully <the enemy retaliated by executing their prisoners>. REQUITE implies a paying back according to one's preference and often not equivalently < requited her love with cold indifference>. RETURN implies a paying or giving back < returned their call> < return good for evil>.