dependent

¹de·pen·dent

adjective \di-ˈpen-dənt\

Definition of DEPENDENT

1

: hanging down

2

a : determined or conditioned by another : contingent <plans that are dependent on the weather>

b (1) : relying on another for support <dependent children> (2) : affected with a drug dependence

c : subject to another's jurisdiction <a dependent territory>

d : subordinate 3a <dependent clauses>

3

a : not mathematically or statistically independent <a dependent set of vectors> <dependent events>

b : equivalent 6a <dependent equations>

— de·pen·dent·ly adverb

Examples of DEPENDENT

1. He has been alcohol dependent for several years.
2. <the dependent willow branches swayed in the gentle breeze>

Origin of DEPENDENT

Middle English dependant, from Anglo-French, present participle of dependre

First Known Use: 14th century

Related to DEPENDENT

Synonyms

dangling, hanging, pendent (or pendant), pendulous, suspended

Antonyms

independent, unconditional

Related Words

drooping, flagging, lolling, sagging, wilting

Near Antonyms

absolute, all-out, arrant, categorical (also categoric), complete, consummate, out-and-out, outright, perfect, simple, total, ultimate, unadulterated, unalloyed, unconditional, unequivocal, unmitigated, unqualified, utter; basal, basic, fundamental, primary

Rhymes with DEPENDENT

appendant, ascendant, attendant, defendant, descendant, impendent, intendant, transcendent

²dependent

noun \-dənt\

Definition of DEPENDENT

1

archaic : dependency

2

: one that is dependent; especially : a person who relies on another for support

Variants of DEPENDENT

dependent also de·pen·dant \-dənt\

Examples of DEPENDENT

1. The insurance provides coverage for workers and their dependents.
2. a person's spouse and dependents
3. Do you have any dependents?

First Known Use of DEPENDENT

1523