Synonym Chooser

How does the verb reciprocate contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of reciprocate are requite, retaliate, and return. While all these words 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

When might requite be a better fit than reciprocate?

Although the words requite and reciprocate have much in common, requite implies a paying back according to one's preference and often not equivalently.

requited her love with cold indifference

When is retaliate a more appropriate choice than reciprocate?

While the synonyms retaliate and reciprocate are close in meaning, retaliate usually implies a paying back of injury in exact kind, often vengefully.

the enemy retaliated by executing their prisoners

Where would return be a reasonable alternative to reciprocate?

The words return and reciprocate can be used in similar contexts, but return implies a paying or giving back.

returned their call
return good for evil

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of reciprocate On Valentine’s Day, two months into the duo’s writing journey and budding friendship, Gilbert had brought a special treat to Westheimer’s and found her gesture unexpectedly reciprocated. Alexa Mikhail, Flow Space, 25 Sep. 2025 If Washington does not reciprocate and instead persists in pressuring India, however, New Delhi over time will find a different balance in its foreign policy, and that new balance will invariably be less favorable to the United States. Tanvi Madan, Foreign Affairs, 24 Sep. 2025 Jim has always been willing to co-parent in a respectful and productive way however Meghan has yet to reciprocate. Sarah Jones, PEOPLE, 24 Sep. 2025 The truth about Sonia Sonia, whose real name is Rocío, has harbored a long-standing obsession with Lorenzo dating back to her childhood that has never been reciprocated. Isabella Wandermurem, Time, 24 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for reciprocate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for reciprocate
repay
Verb
  • The Duggan administration has interpreted state law to mean they can’t be repaid.
    Violet Ikonomova, Freep.com, 15 Oct. 2025
  • Grizzly is claiming the singer-rapper is required to repay $27 million in advances from the tour, adding that Rod remains under contract to work with the promoter for future tours.
    Mya Abraham, VIBE.com, 14 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Reciprocate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/reciprocate. Accessed 21 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on reciprocate

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