Reciprocal: meaning, definitions and examples

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reciprocal

 

[ rɪˈsɪprəkəl ]

Adjective / Noun
Context #1 | Adjective

mathematics

Reciprocal is a mathematical term used to describe the multiplicative inverse of a number. In other words, the reciprocal of a number is 1 divided by that number. For example, the reciprocal of 5 is 1/5.

Synonyms

contrary, inverse, opposite

Examples of usage

  • To find the reciprocal of a number, you simply divide 1 by that number.
  • The reciprocal of 3 is 1/3.
Context #2 | Noun

social relationships

Reciprocal in social relationships refers to the mutual exchange of benefits or privileges between two parties. It implies a give-and-take dynamic where both parties benefit from the relationship.

Synonyms

interchangeable, mutual, shared

Examples of usage

  • In a healthy friendship, there is a reciprocal understanding and support between friends.
  • Mutual respect is essential for reciprocal relationships to thrive.

Translations

Translations of the word "reciprocal" in other languages:

🇵🇹 recíproco

🇮🇳 परस्पर

🇩🇪 wechselseitig

🇮🇩 resiprok

🇺🇦 обопільний

🇵🇱 wzajemny

🇯🇵 相互の (そうごの)

🇫🇷 réciproque

🇪🇸 recíproco

🇹🇷 karşılıklı

🇰🇷 상호의

🇸🇦 متبادل

🇨🇿 vzájemný

🇸🇰 vzájomný

🇨🇳 相互的

🇸🇮 vzajemen

🇮🇸 gagnkvæmur

🇰🇿 өзара

🇬🇪 ურთიერთ

🇦🇿 qarşılıqlı

🇲🇽 recíproco

Etymology

The word 'reciprocal' has its origins in the Latin word 'reciprocus', meaning 'moving back and forth'. The concept of reciprocity has been present in various cultures throughout history, emphasizing the importance of mutual exchanges and interactions. In mathematics, the term 'reciprocal' was introduced to describe the multiplicative inverse of a number, highlighting the relationship between numbers and their reciprocals.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,635 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.