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

• kinship
• connection
• association
• correlation
• relation
• linkage

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

Whether the student interned at a biotech lab or a local nonprofit, the depth of relationship with the recommender and their strategic approach to requesting a letter can ensure that the letter of recommendation will contribute something meaningful and distinct to their overall admissions profile. —Christopher Rim, Forbes.com, 31 July 2025

He’s considered a work-in-progress defensively, learning a lot from his close relationship with Cincinnati Reds catcher Jose Trevino. —Brendan Kuty, New York Times, 31 July 2025

The fictional Leanne’s husband Bill (Ryan Stiles) abruptly leaves her for a younger woman, forcing her to reevaluate her relationships. —Alison Herman, Variety, 31 July 2025

Alejandrino shares a very close relationship with her grandmother. —Maria Morava, MSNBC Newsweek, 31 July 2025

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

Rhymes for relationship

• apostleship
• apprenticeship
• assistantship
• championship
• chancellorship
• citizenship
• companionship
• copartnership
• dictatorship
• directorship
• discipleship
• editorship

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