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
3
: one that is relied on
4
a
: drug addiction
developed a dependence on painkillers
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
Studies show that cigarettes with lower nicotine content reduce people’s dependence on nicotine and can help alleviate some of the cravings associated with withdrawal.
—
Nathaniel Weixel, The Hill, 15 Jan. 2025
Market diversification spreads out the risk and reduces dependence on singular sources, thus adding further security in turbulent times.
—Roman Reznikov, Forbes, 15 Jan. 2025
Parenting Tips for Raising Generation Beta With the vast amount of technological dependence in today’s society, which is only expected to increase as Gen Beta grows, parents should encourage connection with their kids.
—Christin Perry, Parents, 15 Jan. 2025
Continuing to rely solely on procurement from the United States is incompatible with Europe’s longer-term security autonomy; such dependence is no longer a realistic option.
—Erik Jones, Foreign Affairs, 13 Jan. 2025
See all Example Sentences for dependence 
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Nathaniel Weixel, The Hill, 15 Jan. 2025
Market diversification spreads out the risk and reduces dependence on singular sources, thus adding further security in turbulent times.
—Roman Reznikov, Forbes, 15 Jan. 2025
Parenting Tips for Raising Generation Beta With the vast amount of technological dependence in today’s society, which is only expected to increase as Gen Beta grows, parents should encourage connection with their kids.
—Christin Perry, Parents, 15 Jan. 2025
Continuing to rely solely on procurement from the United States is incompatible with Europe’s longer-term security autonomy; such dependence is no longer a realistic option.
—Erik Jones, Foreign Affairs, 13 Jan. 2025
See all Example Sentences for dependence
Dictionary Entries Near dependence
Cite this Entry
“Dependence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dependence. Accessed 20 Jan. 2025.
Copy CitationMedical 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
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