rapport

noun

rap·​port ra-ˈpȯr 

rə-

plural rapports

: a friendly, harmonious relationship

especially : a relationship characterized by agreement, mutual understanding, or empathy that makes communication possible or easy

Did you know?

The word rapport bears a resemblance to a more common English word, report, which is no coincidence: both words come ultimately from the Latin verb portare, meaning "to carry," and both traveled through French words meaning "to bring back" on their way to English. Report has been in use since the 14th century, when it entered Middle English by way of Anglo-French. Rapport was first used in the mid-15th century as a synonym of report in its "account or statement" meaning, but that meaning had become obsolete by the mid-19th century. It wasn't until the early 20th century that English speakers borrowed rapport back from French in the meaning of "a friendly, harmonious relationship." We're happy to report that rapport has since flourished, and we trust this friendly word will stick around a while.

Synonyms

• communion
• fellowship
• rapprochement

Examples of rapport in a Sentence

The name "horse whisperer" appears to be an ancient one from the British Isles, given to people whose rapport with horses seemed almost mystical. —Paul Trachtman, Smithsonian, May 1998

… is said to have established an unusual rapport with the Afghan officers through demonstrating his respect for their traditions and way of life. —Carey Schofield, The Russian Elite, 1993

Moreover, I shall … be arguing that the strength of even the more formal Southern writers stems from their knowledge of and rapport with the language spoken by the unlettered. —Cleanth Brooks, The Language of the American South, 1985

He quickly developed a good rapport with the other teachers.

She works hard to build rapport with her patients.

There is a lack of rapport between the members of the group.

Recent Examples on the Web

But friendship coach Sabrina, who doesn't wish to share her full name, has told Newsweek that there are five red flags that should be avoided in any new rapport. —Daniel R. Depetris, Newsweek, 6 Dec. 2024

Jameis Winston’s found a rapport with Jeudy, which is cute, but the former’s also been sacked 12 times in his last four starts, including six takedowns by the Chargers. —Ryan McFadden, The Denver Post, 29 Nov. 2024

Authentic stories naturally flow and build rapport with customers, employees and investors. —George Baker Sr., Forbes, 27 Nov. 2024

Editor’s picks This small step creates an immediate sense of rapport and comfort. —Red Rodriguez, Rolling Stone, 19 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

French, from rapporter to bring back, refer, from Old French raporter to bring back, from re- + aporter to bring, from Latin apportare, from ad- ad- + portare to carry — more at fare

First Known Use

1923, in the meaning defined above

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Kids Definition

rapport

noun

rap·​port ra-ˈpō(ə)r 

-ˈpȯ(ə)r

: a friendly relationship

Medical Definition

rapport

noun

rap·​port ra-ˈpȯ(ə)r, rə- 

: harmonious accord or relation that fosters cooperation, communication, or trust

rapport between a patient and psychotherapist