relay
The term evokes a sequence of hand-offs, creating a mental image of a chain where success depends on the seamless transition from one person or device to another. It suggests a shared burden or a collective effort where no single participant completes the entire journey alone.
Countable when referring to a specific race or a physical electronic component. Uncountable when referring to the general act of passing information.
Meanings
A race between teams where each member covers a portion of the distance.
The 4x100 meter relay is the most exciting event of the track meet.
An electrical switch that is operated by an electromagnet.
The starter motor is activated by a heavy-duty relay.
Examples
We ran a relay.
Phrasal Verbs
relay on
pass information along to another person or system
The field agents relay on a secure channel to send their reports back to headquarters.