What does reciprocation mean Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˌriːsɪprəˈkeɪʃən/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

The act of responding to or returning a feeling, action, or gesture with another feeling, action, or gesture, often in a mutual or equivalent manner.

Examples

• The couple’s deep love for each other was a perfect example of reciprocation.
• The company’s reciprocation to the community’s needs led to increased goodwill.

Synonyms

• Response
• Reaction

Antonyms

• Apathy
• Indifference

Additional Information

Reciprocation is a fundamental concept in human relationships, business, and social interactions. It involves a mutual exchange of feelings, actions, or gestures, which can lead to stronger bonds, increased trust, and a sense of community. In romantic relationships, reciprocation is essential for building a strong and healthy connection. In business, reciprocation can lead to long-term partnerships and customer loyalty.

Reciprocation can take many forms, including emotional support, financial assistance, or simply being present for someone. It is an essential aspect of building and maintaining relationships, and it requires a willingness to listen, understand, and respond to the needs of others.

Etymology

The word “reciprocation” originates from the Latin words “reciprocus,” meaning “moving backwards and forwards,” and “ation,” meaning “action” or “process.” It has been used in the English language since the 15th century to describe the act of responding or returning a feeling, action, or gesture.

Usage Notes

Reciprocation can be used in various contexts, including romantic relationships, business partnerships, and social interactions. It is essential to understand the nuances of reciprocation in different situations to build strong and healthy relationships.

Cultural References

Reciprocation has been a central theme in many literary and cinematic works, including Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, where the reciprocation of love between the two protagonists leads to a tragic end.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• Return the favor
• Give and take

Related Words or Phrases

• Mutualism
• Symbiosis

Collocations

• Emotional reciprocation
• Financial reciprocation

Frequency of Use

Reciprocation is a moderately used word in everyday language, with a frequency of 0.01% in written texts and 0.005% in spoken language.

Common Misspellings

• Reciprication
• Reciprocition