reciprocate

2 entries found for reciprocate.
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reciprocate reciprocating engine

Main Entry: re·cip·ro·cate
Pronunciation: ri-'si-pr&-"kAt
Function: verb
Inflected Form(s): -cat·ed; -cat·ing
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 /-"kA-t&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>.