relationship

noun

Save Word

re·la·tion·ship | \ ri-ˈlā-shən-ˌship

Definition of relationship

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

3a : 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 More Example Sentences Phrases Containing relationship Learn More About relationship

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.” See More

Recent Examples on the Web That’s interesting because two of Williams’ strength are communication and cultivating a personal relationship with every player. — Kent Somers, The Arizona Republic, 17 May 2022 Even in the safe environment of a therapeutic relationship, this healing work can be emotionally and mentally strenuous at times, Dr. Crawford says. — Carolyn L. Todd, SELF, 17 May 2022 People love to talk about David Cronenberg's penchant for body horror, but The Fly amounts to more than mere goopiness, serving as a gutting allegory for the ways physical and mental illness can ravage a relationship that was once beautiful. — Randall Colburn, EW.com, 16 May 2022 The hope for a Marcos Administration will be for stability, prosperity, and a better relationship with the United States. — Rick Helfenbein, Forbes, 16 May 2022 This latest spat is unlikely to derail a mutually beneficial relationship unless Indian courts take a nakedly political stance against Xiaomi. — Megha Mandavia, WSJ, 16 May 2022 While neither Lenny nor Lisa has officially filed for divorce, Lenny confirmed he's started a new relationship with Austrian model Katharina Mazepa. — Dave Quinn, PEOPLE.com, 16 May 2022 The half-full courtroom gallery included Daniel Brophy’s mother, his son from a previous relationship, as well as the lead detective who investigated the case. — oregonlive, 16 May 2022 The Houston woman, given the name Denise to protect her identity, sent $813,000 of her savings to the fake DiCaprio because of a relationship that eventually became toxic and dangerous, according to a recent story from The Daily Beast. — Steven Santana, Chron, 16 May 2022 See More

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'relationship.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Learn More About relationship

Dictionary Entries Near relationship

relationless

relationship

relatival

Statistics for relationship

Last Updated

20 May 2022

Cite this Entry

“Relationship.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/relationship. Accessed 25 May. 2022.

Style: MLA

MLA

Chicago

APA

Merriam-Webster Check Mark Icon

More Definitions for relationship

relationship

noun

re·la·tion·ship | \ ri-ˈlā-shən-ˌship

Kids Definition of relationship

1 : the state of being related or connected

2 : connection by common ancestry or marriage

3 : the state of interaction between two or more people, groups, or countries The sisters have a close relationship.

relationship

noun

re·la·tion·ship | \ -shən-ˌship

Medical Definition of relationship

1 : the state of being related or interrelated research into the relationship between diet, blood, cholesterol levels, and coronary heart disease — Current Biography

2a : 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 — Journal of the American Medical Association

b : an emotional attachment between individuals a meaningful relationship