reciprocating

Word Origin & History

"moving back and forth," 1690s, present participle adjective from reciprocate (v.). Specifically of machines by 1822.

But her reciprocating mood of cheerfulness was quickly spent.

I changed the movement from a reciprocating to a rotary motion.

The Boche on his part was reciprocating, so that the exchange of shots was mutual.

The first reciprocating engine depended on this to do the actual work.

The preceding saws were of the straight, reciprocating kind.

To keep Jeanne from reciprocating his flame, she had been packed off to a convent school.

The reciprocating marine engine, however, had been steadily improved, until it was a marvel in efficiency.

He was also careful to maintain the amenities of life, prompt in meeting and reciprocating all social obligations.

It was in vain to tell him that she was utterly incapable of reciprocating or even of understanding his wishes.

It does not derive its power from the static force of steam expanding behind a piston, as in a reciprocating engine.

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verb exchange, alternate; equal

verb. come to an agreement