human relations

American  

noun

(usually used with a singular verb)

1. the study of group behavior for the purpose of improving interpersonal relationships, as among employees.

---

Etymology

Origin of human relations

First recorded in 1915–20

Example Sentences

The human relations software provider posted fourth-quarter earnings and revenue that matched analysts’ estimates but its fiscal-year revenue outlook was shy of expectations.

From Barron's • Feb. 12, 2026

The employees being pushed out include a human relations director and a product designer, along with Chief Operating Officer Andrew Northwall and Chief Product Officer Sandro De Moraes.

From Salon • Oct. 4, 2024

Many professionals in the service sector work in teams which include both humans and artificial intelligence systems, which sets new expectations on interactions, human relations, and leadership.

From Science Daily • Dec. 21, 2023

Lehrer bounced back quickly, working with community activist Joe Hicks to form Community Advocates, a nonprofit focused on race and human relations.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 28, 2023

When appointed to a council committee to look into the proposal during the summer, one councilman refused, angrily protesting, “The council knows the need for a human relations commission, and it has failed to act...”

From "The Best of Enemies" by Osha Gray Davidson