relationship

noun re·la·tion·ship \-shən-ˌship\

: the way in which two or more people, groups, countries, etc., talk to, behave toward, and deal with each other

: a romantic or sexual friendship between two people

: the way in which two or more people or things are connected

Full Definition of RELATIONSHIP

: the state of being related or interrelated <studied the relationship between the variables>

: the relation connecting or binding participants in a relationship: as

a : kinship

b : a specific instance or type of kinship

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

See relationship defined for English-language learners

See relationship defined for kids

First Known Use of RELATIONSHIP

1741

Related to RELATIONSHIP

Synonyms: affinity, association, bearing, kinship, liaison, linkage, relation, connection

Antonyms: disaffiliation, dissociation

Other Psychology Terms

fetish, hypochondria, intelligence, mania, narcissism, neurosis, pathological, psychosis, schadenfreude, subliminal

RELATIONSHIP Defined for Kids

relationship

noun re·la·tion·ship \ri-ˈlā-shən-ˌship\

Definition of RELATIONSHIP for Kids

: the state of being related or connected

: connection by common ancestry or marriage

: the state of interaction between two or more people, groups, or countries <The sisters have a close relationship.>

Medical Dictionary

relationship

noun re·la·tion·ship \-shən-ˌship\

Medical Definition of RELATIONSHIP

: the state of being related or interrelated <research into the relationship between diet, blood, cholesterol levels, and coronary heart disease—Current Biography>

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>