MUTUAL

Pronunciation (US): (GB):

I. (adjective)

Sense 1

Meaning:

Concerning each of two or more persons or things; especially given or done in return

Example:

reciprocal privileges at other clubs

Synonyms:

mutual; reciprocal

Classified under:

Adjectives

Similar:

bilateral (affecting or undertaken by two parties)

trilateral (involving three parties)

correlative (expressing a reciprocal or complementary relation)

interactional; interactive (capable of acting on or influencing each other)

reciprocative; reciprocatory (moving alternately backward and forward)

reciprocative; reciprocatory (given or done or owed to each other)

Derivation:

mutuality (a reciprocal relation between interdependent entities (objects or individuals or groups))

mutuality; mutualness (a reciprocality of sentiments)

Sense 2

Meaning:

Common to or shared by two or more parties

Example:

the mutual interests of management and labor

Synonyms:

common; mutual

Classified under:

Adjectives

Similar:

shared (have in common; held or experienced in common)

Derivation:

mutuality (a reciprocal relation between interdependent entities (objects or individuals or groups))

mutuality (a reciprocality of sentiments)

Credits

Context examples:

A short pause of mutual thoughtfulness succeeded.

(Sense and Sensibility, by Jane Austen)

The desire to close had always been mutual.

(White Fang, by Jack London)

I have already heard of your meeting with Mrs. Barclay, and your mutual recognition.

(The Memoirs of Sherlock Holmes, by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle)

The impulse to avoid detection was mutual.

(Martin Eden, by Jack London)

A method of generalization, the systematic arrangement of entities into classes or groups based on mutual similarity and certain differing characteristics.

(Classification, NCI Thesaurus)

The prospect of such delights was very cheering, and they parted in mutual good spirits.

(Pride and Prejudice, by Jane Austen)

The success of the relationship depends on both parties being fully engaged and working with equal measure toward mutual goals.

(AstrologyZone.com, by Susan Miller)

They glared at each other in mutual defiance, while all round rose the distant whisper, "We will kill you—we will kill you if we can."

(The Lost World, by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle)

A relationship bound by mutual interests or loyalties.

(Close Relationship, NCI Thesaurus)

The greatness of sensation is mutual.