late 14c., "hounds placed along a line of chase," from Middle French relai "reserve pack of hounds or other animals" (13c.), from Old French relaier "to exchange tired animals for fresh," literally "leave behind," from re- "back" (see re-) + laier "to leave" (see delay (v.)). The etymological sense is "to leave (dogs) behind (in order to take fresh ones)." Of horses, 1650s. Electromagnetic sense first recorded 1860. As a type of foot-race, it is attested from 1898.
relay (v.)
c. 1400, "to set a pack of (fresh) hounds after a quarry;" also "change horses," from Old French relaiier, from relai (see relay (n.)). Related: Relayed; relaying.
权威例句
1. Britain's prospects of beating the United States in the relay looked poor.
英国要在接力赛中战胜美国,前景看上去并不那么乐观。
2. This metal tower is used to relay television signals to distant villages.
这个金属塔是用于向遥远的村子转播电视讯号的.
3. Messengers will relay your letters.
邮递员将接转你的信件.
4. They will relay your message.
他们会转达你的口信.
5. Lewis has recently recovered his fitness and will clash with Christie in the 4x100m relay.