reliance

noun

re·​li·​ance ri-ˈlī-ən(t)s 

1

: the act of relying : the state of being reliant

2

: something or someone relied on

Synonyms of reliance

• anchor
• backbone
• dependence
• pillar

Examples of reliance in a Sentence

he's been the family's foremost reliance in times of trouble many times

a baby's reliance on her parents

Recent Examples on the Web

However, without strong spending activity at home, a heavy reliance on exports makes China particularly vulnerable to a reversal in AI sentiment, which would hit sales of high-tech products. — Stephanie Yang, CNN Money, 15 July 2026

Microsoft stock has also been under pressure due to questions about its reliance on OpenAI for Azure growth. — Natasha Abellard, CNBC, 15 July 2026

The European Union undertook formal reviews of both the consolidation of assets and its reliance on foreign investors, which are set to conclude soon. — David Folkenflik, NPR, 13 July 2026

To prevent over-reliance on technology, core first-year courses will pilot a ban on electronic devices, compelling students to develop foundational reasoning skills without AI shortcuts. — Michael T. Nietzel, Forbes.com, 11 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1606, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing reliance

• self-reliance

Rhymes for reliance

• science
• appliance
• compliance
• defiance
• geoscience
• neuroscience
• noncompliance
• pseudoscience

Kids Definition

reliance

noun

re·​li·​ance ri-ˈlī-ən(t)s 

1

: the act of relying

2

: the condition or attitude of one who relies : dependence

3

: something or someone relied on

Legal Definition

reliance

noun

re·​li·​ance ri-ˈlī-əns 

1

: the act of relying

reliance on a promise

2

: reliance interest at interest 1