reliance

noun

re·​li·​ance ri-ˈlī-ən(t)s 

1

: the act of relying : the state of being reliant

2

: something or someone relied on

Synonyms

• anchor
• buttress
• dependence
• dependance
• mainstay
• pillar
• standby

Examples of reliance in a Sentence

he's been the family's foremost reliance in times of trouble many times

a baby's reliance on her parents

Recent Examples on the Web

Supply chain localization may accelerate as companies reduce reliance on distant suppliers and mitigate geopolitical risks. —Rusty Wiley, Forbes, 13 Jan. 2025

Experts urged reliance on art advisors who can guide clients impacted by the fire to appropriate and reputable resources, as well as professional organizations like the American Institute for Conservation. —Francesca Aton, ARTnews.com, 10 Jan. 2025

This latest move underscores Trump's continued reliance on legal arguments surrounding presidential immunity. —Tommy Tuberville, Newsweek, 8 Jan. 2025

Obviously, the American healthcare system has many flaws other than its reliance on cost-sharing. —Michael Hiltzik, Los Angeles Times, 8 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1606, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing reliance

• self-reliance

Kids Definition

reliance

noun

re·​li·​ance ri-ˈlī-ən(t)s 

1

: the act of relying

2

: the condition or attitude of one who relies : dependence

3

: something or someone relied on

Legal Definition

reliance

noun

re·​li·​ance ri-ˈlī-əns 

1

: the act of relying

reliance on a promise

2

: reliance interest at interest 1