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
These methods are limited, however, by their variability and dependence on external factors.
—
Discover Magazine, 12 Sep. 2024
However, a hidden danger is stifling innovation across multiple sectors - one that few are talking about: excessive dependence on Statistical Significance, specifically the p-value, as a measure of success.
—Kyle J. Russell, USA TODAY, 14 Sep. 2024
When poor quality sleep becomes a regular problem, many people consider taking medication either over-the-counter or prescription, but that can lead to issues like dependence.
—Melissa Nieves, Health, 13 Sep. 2024
Furthermore, in recent years, pipeline construction in the U.S. has encountered significant environmental resistance, driven by activists aiming to hinder the expansion of infrastructure that perpetuates dependence on fossil fuels.
—Joe Cornell, Forbes, 12 Sep. 2024
See all Example Sentences for dependence 
Discover Magazine, 12 Sep. 2024
However, a hidden danger is stifling innovation across multiple sectors - one that few are talking about: excessive dependence on Statistical Significance, specifically the p-value, as a measure of success.
—Kyle J. Russell, USA TODAY, 14 Sep. 2024
When poor quality sleep becomes a regular problem, many people consider taking medication either over-the-counter or prescription, but that can lead to issues like dependence.
—Melissa Nieves, Health, 13 Sep. 2024
Furthermore, in recent years, pipeline construction in the U.S. has encountered significant environmental resistance, driven by activists aiming to hinder the expansion of infrastructure that perpetuates dependence on fossil fuels.
—Joe Cornell, Forbes, 12 Sep. 2024
See all Example Sentences for dependence
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'dependence.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near dependence
Cite this Entry
“Dependence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dependence. Accessed 1 Oct. 2024.
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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