correlation
noun
cor·re·la·tion
ˌkȯr-ə-ˈlā-shən 
ˌkär-
1
: the state or relation of being correlated
specifically
: a relation existing between phenomena or things or between mathematical or statistical variables which tend to vary, be associated, or occur together in a way not expected on the basis of chance alone
… the obviously high positive correlation between scholastic aptitude and college entrance … —
J. B. Conant
J. B. Conant 2
: the act of correlating
Examples of correlation in a Sentence
the correlation of brain size and intelligence
Researchers have found a direct correlation between smoking and lung cancer.
She says that there's no correlation between being thin and being happy.
Recent Examples on the Web
In the past few election cycles, this correlation has become more robust.
—Jay Caspian Kang, New Yorker, 17 Feb. 2026
The study also found correlations between support for Christian nationalism and factors such as age, education, political party and media consumption.
—Brieanna J. Frank, USA Today, 17 Feb. 2026
What’s more, a 2019 study showed a strong correlation between receiving a higher education while in prison and greater access to employment opportunities and better pay upon release.
—Christopher Martinez, New York Daily News, 15 Feb. 2026
Experts believe the sport can help treat Parkinson’s disease and dementia, and at least one study found a correlation between participation in racket sports and longevity compared to other activities, such as running or swimming.
—J.j. Bailey, New York Times, 15 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for correlation
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show current usage.
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Jay Caspian Kang, New Yorker, 17 Feb. 2026
The study also found correlations between support for Christian nationalism and factors such as age, education, political party and media consumption.
—Brieanna J. Frank, USA Today, 17 Feb. 2026
What’s more, a 2019 study showed a strong correlation between receiving a higher education while in prison and greater access to employment opportunities and better pay upon release.
—Christopher Martinez, New York Daily News, 15 Feb. 2026
Experts believe the sport can help treat Parkinson’s disease and dementia, and at least one study found a correlation between participation in racket sports and longevity compared to other activities, such as running or swimming.
—J.j. Bailey, New York Times, 15 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for correlation
Cite this Entry
“Correlation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/correlation. Accessed 21 Feb. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
correlation
noun
cor·re·la·tion
ˌkȯr-ə-ˈlā-shən
ˌkär-
1
: the act or process of correlating
2
: the state of being correlated
especially
: a mutual relation discovered to exist between things
the correlation between smoking and lung cancer
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