relate definition - Dictionary

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relate

re·late [ ri láyt ] (past and past participle re·lat·ed, present participle re·lat·ing, 3rd person present singular re·lates)

verb

Definition:

1. intransitive verb have connection with something: to have a significant connection with or bearing on something

How does this story relate to our conversation?

2. transitive verb connect people or things: to find or show a connection between two or more people or things

3. intransitive verb be relevant specifically: to concern, involve, or apply to somebody or something specifically

These regulations relate only to imported goods.

4. intransitive verb form friendly association: to have a friendly relationship with or friendly feelings toward somebody, based on an understanding of the person or on shared views or concerns

5. intransitive verb respond to somebody or something: to understand and respond favorably to something, or feel that it has a personal meaning or relevance ( informal )

I just can't seem to relate to the cynicism of that generation.

6. transitive verb tell or describe something: to tell a story or describe an event

related a tale of sorrow

[15th century. < French relater "to report" < Latin relat-, past participle of referre "carry back" < ferre "carry"]

re·lat·a·ble adjective

re·lat·er noun

Word Usage


	The use of relate without a prepositional phrase in the context of personal dealings between people is much used in the language of sociology but in general use is sometimes regarded as jargon, as in Children who find it hard to relate tend to be inadequately socialized. A clearer way to express this would be Children who find it hard to relate to their peers....