dependency

noun

de·​pen·​den·​cy di-ˈpen-dən(t)-sē 

plural dependencies

1

: dependence sense 1

2

: something that is dependent on something else

especially : a territorial unit under the jurisdiction of a nation but not formally annexed by it

3

: a building (such as a stable) that is an adjunct to a main dwelling

Synonyms

• dependence
• dependance
• reliance

Examples of dependency in a Sentence

the country's dependency on foreign oil

a dependency on foreign oil

Recent Examples on the Web

Reducing this dependency, especially at outdoor events or in regions with limited access to cooling infrastructure, could cut carbon emissions. —Ron Estes, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 Mar. 2025

In deep tech, scaling internationally is often a necessity due to fragmented regulatory landscapes and supply chain dependencies. —Pierrick Bouffaron, Forbes, 25 Mar. 2025

Oklo has identified various risks and uncertainties, including regulatory challenges, supply chain dependencies, and market competition, which could impact its future performance. —Quartz Intelligence Newsroom, Quartz, 24 Mar. 2025

Victims may worry about the consequences for the larger family and feel pressure to remain silent due to loyalty, dependency, or the need to protect family members. —Eliana Dockterman, TIME, 24 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1594, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for dependency

• ascendancy
• ascendency
• independency
• interdependency
• superintendency
• pendency
• tendency

Kids Definition

dependency

noun

de·​pend·​en·​cy

di-ˈpen-dən-sē

plural dependencies

1

: dependence sense 1

2

: a territory under the authority of a nation but not formally a part of it

Medical Definition

dependency

noun

de·​pen·​den·​cy -dən-sē 

plural dependencies

: dependence