Definition of recipient noun from the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. a person who receives something. I was the grateful recipient of a helping hand from a total stranger. He was the recipient of a distinguished service award. Our 1 000th member will be the lucky recipient of a mystery gift. The noun 'recipient' finds its origins in the Latin word 'recipientem,' the present participle of the verb 'recipere.' This verb comprises two components: 're-' meaning 'back' or 'again,' and 'capere' meaning 'to take.' Therefore, 'recipient' etymologically signifies someone or something that is in the act of taking or receiving. Recipient definition: a person or thing that receives; receiver.. See examples of RECIPIENT used in a sentence. A recipient is the person on the receiving end of something. Meryl Streep is the recipient of more Academy Award nominations than any other actor.
