Definition of relief

Email this page to a friend

< reliction

relief map >

re·lief    (r-lf) KEY 

NOUN:

1. The easing of a burden or distress, such as pain, anxiety, or oppression.
2. Something that alleviates pain or distress.
3. 1. Public assistance.
   2. Aid in time of danger, especially rescue from siege.
4. 1. Release from a post or duty, as that of sentinel.
   2. One who releases another by taking over a post or duty.
5. A pleasant or amusing change; a diversion.
6. 1. The projection of figures or forms from a flat background, as in sculpture, or the apparent projection of such shapes in a painting or drawing.
   2. A work of art featuring such projection. Also called relievo.
7. Geology The variations in elevation of an area of the earth's surface.
8. Distinction or prominence due to contrast: "The light brought the white church . . . into relief from the flat ledges" (Willa Cather).
9. Law Redress awarded by a court.
10. Baseball The pitching done by a relief pitcher: gave the team two innings of excellent relief.
11. A payment made by the heir of a deceased tenant to a feudal lord for the privilege of succeeding to the tenant's estate.

IDIOM:
on relief

Receiving public assistance because of need or poverty.

---

ETYMOLOGY:
Middle English, from Old French, from relever, to relieve ; see relieve. Senses 6, 7, and 8, French from Italian rilievo ; see bas-relief