First Known Use: 15th century
Dictionary
mutual
adjective mu·tu·al \ˈmyü-chə-wəl, -chəl, -chü-əl; ˈmyüch-wəl\
: shared between two or more people or groups
: shared by two or more people or groups
Full Definition of MUTUAL
1
a : directed by each toward the other or the others <mutual affection> b : having the same feelings one for the other <they had long been mutual enemies> c : shared in common <enjoying their mutual hobby> d : joint
2
: characterized by intimacy
3
: of or relating to a plan whereby the members of an organization share in the profits and expenses; specifically : of, relating to, or taking the form of an insurance method in which the policyholders constitute the members of the insuring company
— mu·tu·al·ly adverb
See mutual defined for English-language learners
See mutual defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of MUTUAL
Middle French mutuel, from Latin mutuus lent, borrowed, mutual, from mutare to change — more at mutable
Related to MUTUAL
- Synonyms
- collaborative, combined, common, communal, concerted, conjoint, conjunct, cooperative, joint, multiple, collective, pooled, public, shared, united
- Antonyms
- exclusive, individual, one-man, one-sided, one-way, single, sole, solitary, unilateral
MUTUAL Defined for Kids
mutual
adjective mu·tu·al \ˈmyü-chə-wəl\
Definition of MUTUAL for Kids
1
: given and received in equal amount <mutual affection>
2
: having the same relation to one another <They are mutual enemies.>
3
: shared by two or more at the same time <It turns out we have a mutual friend.>
— mu·tu·al·ly adverb
Learn More About MUTUAL
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: mutual fundPrevious Word in the Dictionary: muttonfishAll Words Near: mutual
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up mutual? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).