Definition of: relay

(rē′lā, ri·lā′) noun
1. A fresh set, as of men, horses, or dogs, to replace or relieve a tired set.
2. A supply of anything kept in store for anticipated use or need.
3. A relay race, or one of its laps or legs.
4. Electr. A device which utilizes variations in the condition or strength of a current in a circuit to effect the operation of similar devices in the same or another circuit: a telegraph relay.
—v.t.
1. To send onward by or as by relays.
2. To provide with relays.
3. Electr. To operate or retransmit by means of a relay. [<F relais <Ital. rilascio <rilasciare, rilassare leave behind, release <L relaxare loosen again. See RELAX.]