dependence

noun

de·​pen·​dence di-ˈpen-dən(t)s 

variants or less commonly dependance

1

: the quality or state of being dependent

especially : the quality or state of being influenced or determined by or subject to another

2

: reliance, trust

3

: one that is relied on

4

a

: drug addiction

developed a dependence on painkillers

b

: habituation sense 2b

Synonyms

• dependency
• reliance

Examples of dependence in a Sentence

The company was hurt by its dependence on government loans.

Our dependence upon foreign oil makes our economy vulnerable.

a harmful dependence on foreign oil

Recent Examples on the Web

China ranks atop the list of nations seeking to bolster their gold reserves as a means of reducing its dependence on the U.S. dollar. —Max Zahn, ABC News, 18 Oct. 2024

Direct suppliers and their lower-tier suppliers acknowledged their mutual dependence and used relational and collaborative methods and dialogue. —Hakan Karaosman, Sourcing Journal, 17 Oct. 2024

To not experience this because of digital dependence, is to not experience the sacredness of the human experience. —Diane Herbst, People.com, 14 Oct. 2024

This has created a dependence on small Jewish religious political parties to reach coalition majorities. —Dahlia Scheindlin, Foreign Affairs, 27 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing dependence

• linear dependence
• self-dependence

Kids Definition

dependence

noun

de·​pend·​ence

di-ˈpen-dən(t)s

1

: the quality or state of being dependent

especially : the quality or state of being influenced by or subject to another

2

: reliance sense 2, trust

3

: something on which one relies

4

: a drug addiction

Medical Definition

dependence

noun

de·​pen·​dence di-ˈpen-dən(t)s 

1

: the quality or state of being dependent upon or unduly subject to the influence of another

2

a

: drug addiction

b

: habituation sense 2b