Requite

Verb

Definition: To make a return or repayment for (a kind action or a service).

Synonyms: Repay, Pay back, Reward, Return

Antonyms: Withhold, Penalize, Neglect, Ignore

Examples:

She did not requite his loyalty, leaving him feeling unappreciated.
He hoped to requite the favor by helping her with her project.

Mnemonics:

"Requite sounds like re+night, as if you are repaying or replying to a favor done during the night."

Etymology:

Origin:

Middle English, from Old English 'recwitan', from 're-' (back) + 'cwitan' (to reckon or settle accounts)

Historical Usage:

The word has been used in English since the 14th century in the sense of "to pay back, return a favor." It derives from the Old English word 'recwitan'.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Love's not time's fool, though rosy lips and cheeks

Explanation:

This excerpt from Shakespeare's Sonnet 116 uses the word 'requite' to mean that love is not subject to time's control; it does not change or diminish with the passing of time.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing 'requite' with 'require'.

Explanation:

Although both words sound similar, they have different meanings. "Requite" refers to repaying or returning a favor, while "require" means to need or demand something.