reciprocity

[res-uh-pros-i-tee]

noun

1. a reciprocal state or relation.

2. reciprocation; mutual exchange.

3. the relation or policy in commercial dealings between countries by which corresponding advantages or privileges are granted by each country to the citizens of the other.

reciprocity

/ ˌrɛsɪˈprɒsɪtɪ /

noun

1. reciprocal action or relation

2. a mutual exchange of commercial or other privileges

Other Word Forms

• nonreciprocity noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of reciprocity¹

First recorded in 1760–70; from Latin reciproc(us) ( reciprocal ) + -ity

Word History and Origins

Origin of reciprocity¹

C18: via French from Latin reciprocus _reciprocal

Example Sentences

Abdelatty has previously said Egypt has the "right to respond and reciprocity" against countries that "failed to provide protection for Egyptian embassies in accordance with the Vienna Convention".

From BBC

Salazar explains that his people’s relationship with the land, animals and plants is itself a form of religion, one grounded in ceremony, reciprocity and deep respect.

From Los Angeles Times

It says this is part of a global reciprocity realignment, a sharp shift from previous visa terms, which often allowed for multiple entries over two years or more.

From BBC

Chad President Mahamat Déby said he has told his government to "act in accordance with the principles of reciprocity" and has suspended issuing visas to US citizens.

From BBC

In the 2013 push for concealed carry reciprocity, the bill failed 57 to 43 in the Senate, with 44 Republicans and 13 Democrats voting in favor of the legislation.

From Salon

When To Use

What does reciprocity mean?

Reciprocity is a relation or state in which two people or groups perform mutual or corresponding actions based on the actions of the other.The related verb reciprocate means to do something in response to an action in a way that corresponds or is somehow equivalent to that action. Such actions or relations can be described as reciprocal. The word reciprocation refers to an act of reciprocating—or a specific instance of it—and can be used as a synonym for reciprocity in some cases.Reciprocity often refers to a mutual exchange. Between people, this can be an exchange of things like effort or affection. But the word is especially used to refer to a reciprocal relationship between two countries involving mutual policies or aid. Two countries that engage in reciprocity may extend certain advantages or privileges to each other’s citizens, or may require certain obligations required by the other country, such as document fees.Example: Most diplomatic relations are based on reciprocity.