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

This reflects a significant shift from the historical reliance on self-certification​​. Implications for the Industry and Regulation This agreement signals a turning point in how passive investment giants operate within regulated sectors. —Carrie McCabe, Forbes, 31 Dec. 2024

Having the ability to grow without reliance on or external pressure from Wall Street empowers the company to invest in its long-term goals, focusing on the stability and progress that investors expect from a successful oil and gas operation. —Ascend Agency, Orlando Sentinel, 30 Dec. 2024

The success of — and reliance on — sequels and reboots is also going to force a future reckoning for new stories. —Samantha Masunaga, Los Angeles Times, 29 Dec. 2024

The growing reliance on federal Medicaid-expansion dollars creates a dangerous cycle in which states become increasingly beholden ... —Gary D. Alexander, National Review, 22 Dec. 2024

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