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

Riddled with post-breakup woes after Haley temporarily ends their relationship, Rudy meets Isabella (Camila Mendes), a new love interest who encourages his dreams of puppetry, at a local Brazilian fish market. —Carlos Aguilar, Variety, 6 Apr. 2024

Alongside its companion portrait, of a woman in a white headscarf, the painting was likely fitted in a closed portrait box featuring scenes and symbols of love, devotion and grief — although the relationship between the two people is unclear, the context hints at a romantic connection. —Jacqui Palumbo, CNN, 5 Apr. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1741, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing relationship

• bear little relationship to/with
• committed relationship
• working relationship
• love-hate 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

—Journal of the American Medical Association

b

: an emotional attachment between individuals

a meaningful relationship