Relative Definition

relative
adjective
  1. estimated by comparison; not absolute or complete; "a relative stranger"
  2. properly related in size or degree or other measurable characteristics; usually followed by `to'; "the punishment ought to be proportional to the crime"; "earnings relative to production"
noun
  1. a person related by blood or marriage; "police are searching for relatives of the deceased"; "he has distant relations back in New Jersey"
  2. an animal or plant that bears a relationship to another (as related by common descent or by membership in the same genus)

"Relative" in song lyrics

See how relative is used in real songs:

  • "It's all relative"
    Braintax — Exit
  • "Its been a year since I've seen a living relative"
    Brother Ali — Picket Fence
  • "now I'm a son, not a distant relative"
    The Cross Movement — Off The Hook

Usage tips for "relative"

Understanding the precise definition of a word helps you use it with confidence. When using "relative" in your writing, consider whether you need the word itself or one of its synonyms — subtle differences in meaning can change the tone of a sentence. If you're writing poetry or song lyrics, check the rhymes for relative to find words that pair well.

Look up another word