relevance

noun

rel·​e·​vance ˈre-lə-vən(t)s 

1

a

: relation to the matter at hand

b

: practical and especially social applicability : pertinence

giving relevance to college courses

2

: the ability (as of an information retrieval system) to retrieve material that satisfies the needs of the user

Synonyms of relevance

• relevancy

Examples of relevance in a Sentence

I appreciate that you did the dishes tonight, but that has no relevance to my enforcement of the punishment you got earlier this week.

Recent Examples on the Web

The opening continues the company’s expansion into hyper-localized, fashion-first formats, driven by elevated capsules such as its Studio collections and designed to deepen cultural relevance in key global markets. —Ryma Chikhoune, Footwear News, 20 Nov. 2025

Influencers have earned a central place in consumer culture not just by selling products, but by offering emotional proximity, cultural relevance and value. —Kelley Cours Anderson, The Conversation, 17 Nov. 2025

His most recent work, Abracadaver, was part of the 2025 competition in the Made in Jalisco section, showcasing the enduring relevance of his creative voice. —Zac Ntim, Deadline, 17 Nov. 2025

The group sought to understand Christian nationalism, its influence, and what its growing relevance in Indiana meant for Hoosiers like them. —Alexandria Burris, IndyStar, 17 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1787, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for relevance

• irrelevance

Kids Definition

relevance

noun

rel·​e·​vance ˈrel-ə-vən(t)s 

: relation to the matter at hand : pertinence

Legal Definition

relevance

noun

rel·​e·​vance ˈre-lə-vəns 

: the quality or state of being relevant : relation to the matter at hand

ruled on the relevance of the testimony

relevance in discovery has been broadly interpreted