reciprocity
|re-ci-pro-ci-ty|
🇺🇸
/ˌrɛsəˈprɑsəti/
🇬🇧
/ˌrɛsɪˈprɒsɪti/
mutual give-and-take
Etymology
'reciprocity' originates from Medieval Latin 'reciprocitas' (or Late Latin 'reciprocity'), specifically from Latin 'reciprocus', where 're-' meant 'back' and the stem 'reciproc-' conveyed the idea of returning or alternating.
'reciprocity' changed from Medieval Latin 'reciprocitas' and then via Middle French 'réciprocité' into the modern English word 'reciprocity'.
Initially, it meant 'returning' or 'alternating movement'; over time it evolved into the modern sense of 'mutual exchange' or 'mutual rights and obligations'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the practice or principle of exchanging things (such as privileges, favors, or services) for mutual benefit; mutual exchange.
The two countries agreed on a policy of reciprocity to reduce tariffs and encourage trade.
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Noun 2
a principle in law, diplomacy, or ethics where equivalent rights, duties, or concessions are granted by each party to the other.
Diplomatic reciprocity meant that diplomats from both countries received the same privileges.
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Noun 3
behavior in social or biological contexts where actions are returned in kind (e.g., cooperation maintained by reciprocal actions).
Reciprocity among group members can foster long-term cooperation.
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Last updated: 2025/09/28 16:17