A relationship or connection with someone or something that is characterized by both very positive and very negative feelings. I've got a bit of a love-hate relationship with this car—I absolutely adore the way it looks and handles on the road, but it has given me nothing but grief with how many times it has broken down. Tom and I have something of a love-hate relationship. When we get along, we're the best pals in the world, but other times we just drive each other crazy.