Backscratched

Part of speech: verb

Definitions

1. To have someone else scratch one's back to relieve discomfort or provide a sense of indulgence
2. to perform a favor or assist someone with the expectation of a reciprocal act
3. to engage in a mutual exchange of support or benefits in a specific situation

Etymology: "Backscratched" is the past tense and past participle of "backscratch," a verb meaning to trade favors mutually. The verb is formed from "back" and "scratch," and the literal image behind it is easy to picture: one person scratches another's back, and the other returns the courtesy. The favor is physical, and the reciprocity is built into the act itself. The compound describes a reciprocal arrangement, so the past forms usually describe two parties who each helped the other. In that sense, the word works as a quiet metaphor for everyday favor-trading, where the obligation runs both ways.

Synonyms: reciprocated favors, mutual help

Antonyms: neglected, ignored