reciprocation
7.9
A straight back-and-forth movement in machines, for example a piston
- noun
- /rɪˌsɪprəˈkeɪʃən/
- Specialized
:
reciprocación
- The reciprocation of the piston allows the engine to function smoothly.
Examples
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The reciprocation of the arm in the old clock ensures that the gears move accurately.
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In this mechanical device, the reciprocation of the components creates a continuous motion.
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And then the the the reciprocation effect, which you'd probably know very well.
How Vigorous
Surface Forms
reciprocation singular
reciprocations plural
Morphology
reciprocation = reciprocate (transparent) = reciprocate + ion
The noun is a straightforward nominalization of the verb 'reciprocate' meaning the action or process of reciprocating (movement back-and-forth).
Etymology
Reciprocation comes from Latin roots re- ('back') and pro- ('forward'), which together give the picture of 'back-and-forth'. So in machines, reciprocation is the simple 'back-and-forth' movement, like a piston or saw blade moving to and fro.