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

The company continues to focus on expanding its Ibotta Performance Network and maintaining relationships with key partners such as Walmart, Dollar General, and Family Dollar. —Quartz Bot, Quartz, 14 Nov. 2024

Tonight: Explore! LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) ★★★ Today the Moon is opposite your sign, which will turn your attention to your closest relationships. —Georgia Nicols, The Denver Post, 13 Nov. 2024

Batman’s comedic Technicolor stylings — and the utter sincerity with which stars Adam West and Burt Ward led viewers through them — have lived on through countless references and parodies in the ensuing decades, as well as a mercurial relationship with Batman fans. —Joshua Rivera, Vulture, 13 Nov. 2024

Thune and Cornyn are from the institutionalist wing of the GOP, and both have long-standing relationships with the conference. —Elizabeth Robinson, NBC News, 13 Nov. 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