Relative

Definition

Relative is a noun and an adjective. As a noun, it refers to a person connected by blood or marriage. As an adjective, it describes something in relation to something else or as dependent on a specific context or standard.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈrɛl.ə.tɪv/
• Respelling: REL-uh-tiv

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈrɛl.ə.tɪv/
• Respelling: REL-uh-tiv

Etymology

The word "relative" originates from the Latin "relativus," meaning "having relation to something," derived from "referre" (to bring back, relate). It entered Middle English in the late 14th century.

Derivatives

• Relativity (noun)
• Relatively (adverb)
• Relational (adjective)
• Relation (noun)
• Relativism (noun)

Synonyms

• Kin (noun)
• Proportional (adjective)
• Comparable (adjective)

Antonyms

• Stranger (noun)
• Absolute (adjective)
• Independent (adjective)

Usage

The term "relative" is commonly used in family contexts as well as in discussions of comparisons or dependencies. Examples include "She visited her relatives during the holidays" (noun) and "Success is relative to one's goals" (adjective).

Related Terms

• Relation: A connection or association.
• Kinship: The state of being related by blood or marriage.
• Comparison: The act of evaluating similarities or differences.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A person connected by blood or marriage: Refers to family members.
  • Example: "She invited her relatives to the wedding."
• Someone considered in relation to another: Refers to an individual whose status is compared to others.
  • Example: "He is a distant relative of the famous author."

Adjective

• Dependent on or in relation to something else: Refers to something defined by comparison or context.
  • Example: "We need to consider the problem in its relative context."
• Proportional or comparable: Refers to something that is related in degree or measure.
  • Example: "Her success is relative to the effort she puts in."