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

Our relationship is trying to figure out how to get ourselves out of these really tricky situations. —Jazz Tangcay, Variety, 22 Oct. 2024

Fanatics is partnering with Lululemon on a new line of NHL merchandise, expanding its relationship with another major sports apparel brand. —Eben Novy-Williams, Sportico.com, 22 Oct. 2024

Each personalized roadmap included professional skills development (e.g., public speaking) and business plans to build key competencies for promotion such as client recruitment, mentoring and training of junior staff and developing relationships with external stakeholders. —Kathleen Shanley, Forbes, 22 Oct. 2024

The company’s contract renewal with the NBA comes as new CEO Elliott Hill tries to regain market share and shore up relationships with its critical partnerships, including being the official uniform supplier for the National Football League and Major League Baseball. —Kristian Burt, CNBC, 22 Oct. 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