correlation
n. C / Un. a connection between two or more things where they change together. If one thing goes up while the other goes up, there is a link between them, even if one does not cause the other.
n. a mutual relationship or connection between two or more variables such that they tend to vary, be associated, or occur together. In statistical contexts, it refers to the degree to which two variables move in coordination with one another.
There is a strong correlation between height and weight.
Researchers found a high correlation between regular exercise and improved mental health outcomes in the study group.
While the data shows a significant positive correlation between ice cream sales and drowning incidents, it is vital to remember that both are influenced by the third variable of rising temperatures.
From Middle French corrélation. Morphologically correlate + -ion.
Often used with the preposition 'between' or 'with'. In its countable sense, it refers to a specific statistical relationship; in its uncountable sense, it refers to the general state of being related.
the correlation of smoking and cancerthe correlation between smoking and cancerWhen describing a relationship between two distinct variables, 'between' is the standard preposition used with this noun.