requite
UK[rɪˈkwaɪt]US[rɪˈkwaɪt]
v
To make a suitable return for something, such as a service or an injury; to repay or avenge.
v
To make return to (a person) for a service, kindness, or injury.
Morpheme Breakdown
re
quite
re
again
quite
to settle
Etymology
The word "requite" entered English in the early 16th century, formed from the prefix re- and the now-archaic verb "quite," which meant to repay or settle a score. The core component, "quite," originates from Latin quietare ("to quiet, settle"), which itself derives from quies ("rest, quiet"). The underlying logic is one of restoring balance: the prefix re- implies a responsive action, while the root conveys the idea of settling an account, whether of kindness or wrong. Thus, the literal sense of "to settle again" evolved into the modern abstract meanings of repaying a favor or returning an injury.
Analysis
Structure: re (again) + quite (to settle)
- re: A Latin prefix meaning "again, back".
- quite: From the Latin root quietare, meaning "to quiet, to set at rest, to settle". In this context, it carries the sense of settling a debt or obligation.
Examples
He hoped his loyalty would be requited with trust and support.
She sought to requite the insult with a sharp, public rebuttal.
The novel explores the theme of love that is deeply felt but never requited.