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

That said, intellectual curiosity is at the heart of a spy’s relationship toolkit. —Jeremy Hurewitz, TIME, 21 Dec. 2024

Scrutinize your relationships and decide to spend time only with positive people. —Harriette Cole, The Mercury News, 21 Dec. 2024

But at the heart of it, [Virgin River is] a romantic drama with a relationship show and kind of a medical engine in it too. —Carly Thomas, The Hollywood Reporter, 21 Dec. 2024

Laura Harrier, known for her role as Liz Allan in Spider-Man: Homecoming, recently had to set the record straight about her relationship status after Spider-Verse star Shameik Moore posted what appeared to be a cozy video of the two together. —Jenzia Burgos, StyleCaster, 21 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