interdependence

noun

in·​ter·​de·​pen·​dence ˌin-tər-di-ˈpen-dən(t)s 

variants or interdependency

ˌin-tər-di-ˈpen-dən(t)-sē 

plural interdependences or interdependencies

1

: the state of being dependent upon one another : mutual dependence

interdependence of the two nations' economies

… a form of symbiosis, of close mutual interdependence of two species of organisms.

—Marston Bates

… the deep psychological interdependence between ourselves and those we love.

—Judith A. Savage

… understood the interdependence of mental, physical, and spiritual health.

—Donald N. Levine

But plants happen to grow in these little universes we call ecosystems, where they are sustained by complex webs of interdependency with fungi, microbes, animals, and other plants.

—Kenneth Brower

2

: a mutually dependent relationship

Growing global interdependencies further muddy the debate, making it harder to know who "we" are and what "our" national interests really are.

—Peter H. Schuck

There are complex interdependences among these factors …

—Victor H. Benenberg

Examples of interdependence in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The tariffs had a smaller impact on the U.S. trade deficit with China than the latter's 2022 COVID-19 lockdowns, further evidence of their economic interdependence. —David Kirton, USA TODAY, 24 Oct. 2024

Alluding to this interlocking interdependence, Joseph and Sydney have the same tattoo of what resembles a Venn diagram. —Carlos Aguilar, Variety, 4 Oct. 2024

These movements share a commitment to a more holistic view of business that recognizes the interdependence of financial success, employee well-being, community impact, and environmental stewardship. —Mary Josephs, Forbes, 3 Oct. 2024

Doing so is the best way to upskill the U.S. workforce, promote the country’s economic interdependence, and position the United States for long-term success. —Niccolo W. Bonifai, Foreign Affairs, 12 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1817, in the meaning defined at sense 1