relevance

American  

[rel-uh-vuhns] / ˈrɛl ə vəns /

Often relevancy

noun

1. the condition of being relevant, or connected with the matter at hand.

   Some traditional institutions of the media lack relevance in this digital age.

---

Etymology

Origin of relevance

First recorded in 1620–30, for an earlier sense; relev(ant) ( def. ) + -ance ( def. )

Explanation

To know the relevance of something is to know why it matters or how it is important. I don't understand the relevance of this discussion: it doesn't seem important to me. If you don't understand the relevance of the word "relevant" to the discussion of the meaning of the word relevance, we're gonna have some trouble. When something is "relevant," it matters. Its relevance is clear. Relevance is simply the noun form of the adjective "relevant," which means "important to the matter at hand." Artists and politicians are always worried about their relevance. If they are no longer relevant, they may not keep their job. Someone without relevance might be called "irrelevant."

Example Sentences

Thus, while transplantation never became a widespread treatment for solid tumors, it remains a critical option for several blood cancers and has found new relevance beyond oncology.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 19, 2026

As various observers have noted, this isn’t the first time a prominent brand has latched onto tech buzzwords as a means of securing investment and relevance.

From Slate • Apr. 16, 2026

It might just as well be written in Latin, or Linear A — the still-undeciphered language of ancient Crete — for all its relevance.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 12, 2026

"The closer we get, the relevance and importance of the match increases," admitted Arteta, whose side have finished runners-up for the past three seasons.

From BBC • Apr. 11, 2026

His time with her seems like a permanent part of him that no longer has any relevance, or currency.

From "The Namesake" by Jhumpa Lahiri

Related Words

• applicability
• importance
• purpose