A Relay is a simple electromechanical switch. While we use normal switches to close or open a circuit manually, a Relay is also a switch that connects or disconnects two circuits. Relay can be a verb meaning to repeat or broadcast something, or a noun meaning a team, a race, or a device. Learn more about the meaning, usage, and examples of relay with Cambridge Dictionary. Define relay. relay synonyms, relay pronunciation, relay translation, English dictionary definition of relay. n. 1. An act of passing something along from one person, group, or station to another. 2. Sports a. A relay race. b. A division of a relay race. A relay is an electrically operated switch that can be used to control an electrical circuit. It typically consists of an electromagnet that, when activated by an electrical current, attracts a movable contact (or contacts) to close an electrical circuit. Relays are used in a wide variety of applications, such as controlling the operation of motors, lighting, and other electrical devices, and can be used to amplify electrical signals or to switch high-voltage or high-current circuits with a ...