reciprocity

rec·i·proc·i·ty

noun \ˌre-sə-ˈprä-s(ə-)tē\

plural rec·i·proc·i·ties

Definition of RECIPROCITY

1

: the quality or state of being reciprocal : mutual dependence, action, or influence

2

: a mutual exchange of privileges; specifically : a recognition by one of two countries or institutions of the validity of licenses or privileges granted by the other

Examples of RECIPROCITY

1. The proposal calls for reciprocity in trade relations.
2. Grownups know that little things matter … and that relationships are based on respect and reciprocity. —Margaret Carlson, Time, 4 June 2001
3. Introduced in the McKinley Tariff of 1890, reciprocity gave the president authority to remove items from the free list if their countries of origin placed unreasonable tariffs on American goods. —Mary Beth Norton et al., A People and a Nation, 1988
4. Indeed when they talked on an indifferent subject, as now, there was ever a second silent conversation passing between their emotions, so perfect was the reciprocity between them. —Thomas Hardy, Jude the Obscure, 1895

Origin of RECIPROCITY

(see ¹reciprocal)

First Known Use: 1766

Rhymes with RECIPROCITY

animosity, generosity, grandiosity, luminosity, virtuosity