relationship

noun

re·​la·​tion·​ship ri-ˈlā-shən-ˌship 

1

: the state of being related or interrelated

studied the relationship between the variables

2

: the relation connecting or binding participants in a relationship: such as

a

: kinship

b

: a specific instance or type of kinship

3

a

: a state of affairs existing between those having relations or dealings

had a good relationship with his family

b

: a romantic or passionate attachment

Synonyms

• affinity
• association
• bearing
• connection
• kinship
• liaison
• linkage
• relation

Examples of relationship in a Sentence

The relationship between the two countries has improved.

She has a close relationship with her sister.

She has had many bad relationships.

I am not in a relationship right now.

the relationship between mental and physical health

“What is your relationship to the witness?” “He is my father.”

Recent Examples on the Web

Herzog spoke with Musk at the request of hostage family members, who believed the world’s wealthiest person would be able to help secure a deal because of his relationship with Trump, CNN reported. —Danielle Chemtob, Forbes, 9 Dec. 2024

If his fate is indeed tied to his relationship with Trump, Ishiba may be off to a rocky start. —Paul Du Quenoy, Newsweek, 9 Dec. 2024

Lucas is the longest-serving GOP lawmaker on the committee, touting his three decades in the House, while Huizenga has campaigned on his relationship with Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC), who is expected to become chairman of the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs next year. —Rachel Schilke, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 9 Dec. 2024

Tricia, long jealous of Sam’s relationship with Holly, has built around her life a brittle exterior that inevitably shatters. —Mary McNamara, Los Angeles Times, 9 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1724, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing relationship

• bear little relationship to/with
• committed relationship
• love-hate relationship
• working relationship

Kids Definition

relationship

noun

re·​la·​tion·​ship ri-ˈlā-shən-ˌship 

1

: the state of being related

study language relationships

2

: kinship

claimed relationship with the mayor

also : a specific instance or type of this

family relationships

3

: a state of affairs existing between those having shared dealings

good doctor-patient relationships

Medical Definition

relationship

noun

re·​la·​tion·​ship -shən-ˌship 

1

: the state of being related or interrelated

research into the relationship between diet, blood, cholesterol levels, and coronary heart disease

—Current Biography

2

a

: a state of affairs existing between those having relations or dealings

called on to assume the role of personal advisor in the doctor-patient relationship

—The Journal of the American Medical Association

b

: an emotional attachment between individuals

a meaningful relationship