rely

verb

re·​ly ri-ˈlī 

relied; relying

intransitive verb

1

: to be dependent

the system on which we rely for water

2

: to have confidence based on experience

someone you can rely on

relier

ri-ˈlī(-ə)r 

noun

Synonyms

• calculate
• count
• depend
• lean
• reckon

Examples of rely in a Sentence

rigorously tested the rope before starting out, for the rock climbers would be relying on it with their very lives

Recent Examples on the Web

Ethereum, the world’s largest smart contract platform, shifted to Proof-of-Stake in September 2022, no longer relying on an external resource (electricity), rather using an internal resource (stake), to achieve consensus. —Amor Sexton, Forbes, 30 Oct. 2024

To depict that harrowing part of the documentary, the filmmakers relied on a combination of re-creations — filmed with actors in Iceland and Los Angeles — and artificial intelligence. —Benjamin Svetkey, The Hollywood Reporter, 30 Oct. 2024

Most devices rely on Wi-Fi or your smartphone—both of which can crash at inconvenient times. —Chris Stokel-Walker, TIME, 30 Oct. 2024

The Phantoms rely on quarterback Jaden Jefferson and his strong collection of receivers. —Eric Sondheimer, Los Angeles Times, 30 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English relien to rally, from Anglo-French relier to retie, gather, rally, from Latin religare to tie out of the way, from re- + ligare to tie — more at ligature

First Known Use

1574, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing rely

• rely on/upon

Kids Definition

rely

verb

re·​ly ri-ˈlī 

relied; relying

1

: to have confidence based on experience

someone you can rely on

2

: to be dependent

the system on which we rely for water

Legal Definition

rely

intransitive verb

re·​ly

relied; relying

: to depend with confidence : place faith