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

To manage them effectively, create a dependency map, prioritize critical path tasks, communicate, use project management tools and anticipate issues. —Expert Panel®, Forbes, 2 Oct. 2024

That dependency, Azadegan says, means people might experience shortages of certain electronics like cell phones. —Solcyré Burga, TIME, 1 Oct. 2024

Beijing, meanwhile, has averted its gaze from Moscow’s belligerence in Africa while fostering new dependencies and saddling more countries with unsustainable debt. —Antony J. Blinken, Foreign Affairs, 1 Oct. 2024

Social media dependency is a real problem, recent data shows. —Renée Onque, CNBC, 24 Sep. 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