re
cip
ro
cate
Third Person
reciprocates
Present Participle
reciprocating
Past Tense
reciprocated
Past Participle
reciprocated
1
to move alternately in a forward and backward motion, creating a repetitive or oscillating pattern
- During the piston pump's operation, the plungers reciprocated to create suction and discharge fluid.
- The shuttle in a loom reciprocates to weave the fabric, moving back and forth to create a seamless pattern.
- The swing of the metronome reciprocated, creating a rhythmic ticking sound.
2
to respond in kind to a gesture or action
transitive
- Teams that reciprocate effort and commitment tend to achieve shared goals more effectively.
- Social interactions become more harmonious when people reciprocate respect.
- In a healthy relationship, partners often reciprocate love and support.
- Colleagues who work well together tend to reciprocate cooperation.