relationship

noun

re·​la·​tion·​ship ri-ˈlā-shən-ˌship How to pronounce relationship (audio)
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
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

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The company continues to focus on expanding its Ibotta Performance Network and maintaining relationships with key partners such as Walmart, Dollar General, and Family Dollar. Quartz Bot, Quartz, 14 Nov. 2024 Tonight: Explore! LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) ★★★ Today the Moon is opposite your sign, which will turn your attention to your closest relationships. Georgia Nicols, The Denver Post, 13 Nov. 2024 Batman’s comedic Technicolor stylings — and the utter sincerity with which stars Adam West and Burt Ward led viewers through them — have lived on through countless references and parodies in the ensuing decades, as well as a mercurial relationship with Batman fans. Joshua Rivera, Vulture, 13 Nov. 2024 Thune and Cornyn are from the institutionalist wing of the GOP, and both have long-standing relationships with the conference. Elizabeth Robinson, NBC News, 13 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for relationship 

Word History

First Known Use

1724, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of relationship was in 1724

Dictionary Entries Near relationship

Cite this Entry

“Relationship.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/relationship. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

relationship

noun
re·​la·​tion·​ship ri-ˈlā-shən-ˌship How to pronounce relationship (audio)
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 How to pronounce relationship (audio)
1
: the state of being related or interrelated
research into the relationship between diet, blood, cholesterol levels, and coronary heart diseaseCurrent 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 relationshipThe Journal of the American Medical Association
b
: an emotional attachment between individuals
a meaningful relationship

More from Merriam-Webster on relationship

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