transference

noun

trans·​fer·​ence tran(t)s-ˈfər-ən(t)s  ˈtran(t)s-(ˌ)fər- 

1

: an act, process, or instance of transferring : conveyance, transfer

2

: the redirection of feelings and desires and especially of those unconsciously retained from childhood toward a new object (such as a psychoanalyst conducting therapy)

transferential

ˌtran(t)s-fə-ˈren(t)-shəl 

adjective

Examples of transference in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

So, the four actresses rehearsed in a dance studio for weeks, practicing each other's mannerisms; studying vocal inflections; and engaging in what can be described as emotional transference, spiritual osmosis, or a combination of the two. —EW.com, 29 Apr. 2025

All this data transference can be detected and tracked. —New Atlas, 24 Apr. 2025

Such intimacy invites time-travel and transference. —Joshua Dubler, New York Times, 25 Mar. 2025

Both fit into the season’s larger themes of desire, identity and transference, and I’m intrigued to see where else White goes with them. —Daniel Fienberg, The Hollywood Reporter, 24 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1681, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for transference

• concurrence
• deterrence
• incurrence
• occurrence
• recurrence
• coinsurance
• countertransference

Kids Definition

transference

noun

trans·​fer·​ence tran(t)s-ˈfər-ən(t)s 

: an act, process, or example of transferring

Medical Definition

transference

noun

trans·​fer·​ence tran(t)s-ˈfər-ən(t)s  ˈtran(t)s-(ˌ) 

: the redirection of feelings and desires and especially of those unconsciously retained from childhood toward a new object (as a psychoanalyst conducting therapy)

Legal Definition

transference

noun

trans·​fer·​ence trans-ˈfər-əns, ˈtrans-ˌfər- 

: an act, process, or instance of transferring