noun

relationship

A connection between people or things.

Maya has a close relationship with her older sister.

Etymology

Relationship is built from relation with -ship, an ending naming a condition. It describes the state or character of a connection between people or things.

More examples

  • The study examines the relationship between sleep and memory.
  • Our company builds lasting relationships with local suppliers.
  • They are in a romantic relationship.

Forms

relationship · relationships

relational adjective — Concerning connections between people or things.

Similar words

connection
Can describe a link without suggesting ongoing interaction.
bond
Emphasizes a strong attachment, especially an emotional one.
association
Often suggests a looser link or a shared activity.