relationship
noun
re·la·tion·ship
ri-ˈlā-shən-ˌship
1
: the way in which two or more things or people are connected : the state of being related or interrelated
the relationship between physical and mental health
studied the relationship between the variables
the doctor-patient relationship
2
a
: the way in which two or more people, groups, countries, etc., talk to, behave toward, and deal with each other
had a good relationship with his family
The relationship between the two countries has improved.
She and her brother have a close relationship.
We have a great working relationship.
The two teammates have a love-hate relationship. [=a mixture of love and hate for one another]
b
: one's feelings or behavior towards something that one deals with regularly
raising kids to have a healthy relationship with food
I have a love-hate relationship with technology.
c
: a romantic or sexual friendship
I am not interested in a relationship right now.
3
a
: the state of being in the same family : kinship
claimed a relationship with the deceased
b
: a specific instance or type of kinship
a list of family relationships
Cite this Entry
“Relationship.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/relationship. Accessed 14 Aug. 2026.
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