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

However, not all European countries have been successful in ending their energy dependency on Russia. —Daniel Markind, Forbes, 6 Dec. 2024

This dependency has put a strain on our relationship with them and with each other, as my husband and I have different opinions on how to address the situation. —Harriette Cole, The Mercury News, 29 Nov. 2024

Her comments come as India’s employment-to-population ratio stands at a mere 52.8%, while its labor dependency ratio is 1.52, data from the International Labour Organization (ILO) shows. —Amala Balakrishner, CNBC, 28 Nov. 2024

As our social fabric unravels with care for the elderly shifting dramatically from the realm of the family to state dependency, these pressures can only intensify. —Yaakov Katz, Newsweek, 27 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1594, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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