Relay Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
relay
[rษชหleษช ]
Definitions
communication
A message that is passed from one person to another, often involving a series of people.
Synonyms
passing on, transfer, transmission.
Examples of usage
- The news was spread through a relay of messengers.
- She received the information through a relay of phone calls.
sports
A race in which several team members take turns to run, swim, or perform some other physical activity.
Synonyms
baton race, handoff race, team race.
Examples of usage
- The relay race was the most exciting event of the day.
- She won the gold medal in the swimming relay.
passing on
To pass on or transmit (information or a message).
Synonyms
communicate, pass on, transmit.
Examples of usage
- Please relay the message to the rest of the team.
- He relayed the instructions to the staff.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Technology
- In computing, a relay can refer to a device that controls the flow of electricity, turning things on or off.
- Relay systems in telecommunications send data over long distances by directing it through different paths.
- The concept of a relay is fundamental in both hardware (like in circuits) and software (in distributing tasks among servers).
Sports
- In athletics, a relay race is a contest where team members must pass a baton to each other in a set order.
- The 4x100 meter relay is one of the most exciting races in track and field, featuring speed and teamwork.
- Relays can also occur in swimming, where each team member completes a part of the race before passing the turn to the next swimmer.
Psychology
- The relay concept also appears in social interactions where group members communicate information to each other, like in a game of telephone.
- This method of passing information can sometimes lead to distortions, showing how fragile communication can be.
- Effective relaying of messages in teams is critical for achieving goals and enhancing group performance.
Culture
- In technology and social media, relays can refer to the sharing of messages between networks or users, enhancing connectivity.
- Mystery novels often utilize the relay concept, as characters pass clues to solve puzzles, creating suspense and intrigue.
- In storytelling, the act of passing a story down through generations can also be seen as a cultural relay.
Origin of 'relay'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'relay' comes from the Latin word 'relatus', meaning 'to bring back' or 'to refer'.
- Originally, 'relay' referred to horses that were switched out during long journeys to keep travel efficient.
- The modern use of the word started in the 19th century, mainly in contexts involving communication and racing.
The word 'relay' originated in the 16th century from the Old French word 'relayer', which means 'to change horses'. It was originally used in the context of switching horses during a journey to keep up the pace. Over time, the meaning evolved to include the passing of messages or items from one person to another, as well as team races where participants take turns. Today, 'relay' is commonly used in both communication and sports contexts.
See also: lay, layabout, layer, layoff, layout, layover, mislay, outlay, outlays.