relay
REE-lay
/ˈriːleɪ/
A race between teams in which each member runs part of the distance; also, to pass information along.
In sports, it emphasizes teamwork and the 'handoff.' In communication, it means passing a message through intermediaries.
The story behind the word. The term comes from the Old French 'relaier,' which referred to the practice of hunters leaving behind tired hounds and bringing in fresh ones to continue the chase.
Word relationships
- transmit: Transmit is more technical; relay implies a series of steps or people.
Commonly confused with
- delay: A delay is a pause; a relay is a continuous passing of something.
Collocations
- relay race
- relay team
- relay a message
Example sentences
- "The 4x100m relay is often the most exciting event because of the high-speed baton exchanges." Track and Field
- "The radio tower was used to relay signals from the valley to the city." Communication
Memory hook
Think of 're-laying' a carpet—you finish one section and then lay the next. Relay = Replace and play.
When not to use
Don't use as a synonym for 'repeat'; it specifically means passing something from one to another.
Fun facts
- The first athletic relays were inspired by the postal service, where riders would change horses at specific stations.
Explore more words
Transmit, liaise, Communicate, liaison, tandem, intermediary
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