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

Such a deal would reduce US dependency on China, and provide significant incentive for the United States to boost Ukrainian security, a US official familiar with negotiations told CNN. —Nick Paton Walsh, CNN, 22 Feb. 2025

Each step has strong dependencies on the preceding steps. —Mark Settle, Forbes, 20 Feb. 2025

This dependency not only strains U.S. resources but also fosters a culture of complacency among European allies, many of whom have taken to using their freedom and subsidized wealth to fund anti-Western NGOs. —Matt Robison, Newsweek, 18 Feb. 2025

Apart from enjoying a leaner body and less dependency, users of the decreased level seem more content. —Beth Landman, The Hollywood Reporter, 8 Feb. 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