A connection means a relationship or link between two or more things. When you make a connection between ideas in science class, you notice how they relate to each other: maybe you realize that the water cycle connects to weather patterns, or that addition connects to multiplication. When you feel a connection with someone, you share interests, understand each other, or feel comfortable together.

The word describes physical links too. A train connection lets you switch from one train to another to reach your destination. An electrical connection joins wires so current can flow through. Your internet connection links your computer to the wider network.

Sometimes connections aren't obvious at first. A detective investigating a mystery looks for connections between clues. A scientist might discover an unexpected connection between two things no one thought were related. The most exciting moments in learning often come when you suddenly see a connection you'd never noticed before.

People also use connections to mean influential contacts who can help you, like when someone says, “My uncle has connections in the publishing industry.” In this sense, it means knowing people who might open doors or provide opportunities.