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

Mental health experts warn that consequences may be severe as constant AI conversations can blur boundaries and fuel dependency. —Sonia Mankame, Mercury News, 30 Sep. 2025

There are a variety of treatments, including counseling, medications and support groups, to help people who want to end that dependency. —Malaka Gharib, NPR, 29 Sep. 2025

Platforms had lulled users into complacent dependency, then sealed off the exits, revealing themselves as extractive monopolies. —Julian Lucas, New Yorker, 29 Sep. 2025

Novak served as a deputy federal public defender for six years and also worked as a referee for the Los Angeles Superior Court, with a focus on juvenile dependency and delinquency proceedings. —Chris Spargo, PEOPLE, 29 Sep. 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