relevance

noun

rel·​e·​vance ˈre-lə-vən(t)s How to pronounce relevance (audio)
Synonyms of relevance
1
a
: relation to the matter at hand
b
: practical and especially social applicability : pertinence
giving relevance to college courses
2
: the ability (as of an information retrieval system) to retrieve material that satisfies the needs of the user

Examples of relevance in a Sentence

I appreciate that you did the dishes tonight, but that has no relevance to my enforcement of the punishment you got earlier this week.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Ahead of the United States’ 250th anniversary on Saturday, Hayward reflects on the series and its relevance today. Emily Tarinelli, Los Angeles Times, 2 July 2026 What the design and fashion industries have long shared is their ability to craft objects with everyday relevance. Emmanuel Olunkwa, Architectural Digest, 1 July 2026 Brands are now creating experiential spaces in retail and leveraging social media to engage fans, shifting focus from mere ad spend to cultural relevance. Clara Ludmir, Forbes.com, 1 July 2026 Since its 1997 debut, the Comedy Central series has remained a dominant force in both viewership and cultural relevance. Denise Petski, Deadline, 30 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for relevance

Word History

First Known Use

1787, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of relevance was in 1787

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Relevance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/relevance. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.

Kids Definition

relevance

noun
rel·​e·​vance ˈrel-ə-vən(t)s How to pronounce relevance (audio)
: relation to the matter at hand : pertinence

Legal Definition

relevance

noun
rel·​e·​vance ˈre-lə-vəns How to pronounce relevance (audio)
: the quality or state of being relevant : relation to the matter at hand
ruled on the relevance of the testimony
relevance in discovery has been broadly interpreted

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