relationship

Relationship is on the Academic Vocabulary List.

Word parts

relation + -ship

Pronunciation

• IPA ^(key): /rɪˈleɪʃənˌʃɪp/

• Audio (US)

  (file)

Noun

Singular relationship

Plural relationships

1. (countable) When there is a relationship between things, there is a connection.

   There is a clear relationship between fire and heat.

2. (countable) When people are connected by family, there is a relationship between them.

   There is a family relationship between Bob Smith and John Smith.

3. (countable) When people are friends or partners, they have a relationship.

   John is the boyfriend of Joan. They have a relationship.

Related words

• relate
• relation
• unrelated
• relational
• relative