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

For most developers, that means lock-in and dependency, which became normal before today’s AI boom and is assumed. —Asad Ramzanali, Time, 6 Oct. 2025

What To Know The White House has framed the new tariffs as part of an effort to reduce dependency on foreign manufacturing and protect American jobs. —Jesus Mesa, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 Oct. 2025

In February, Lujan was indicted on charges, including child abuse, evidence tampering and contributing to the dependency of a child, according to the Maricopa County Attorney's Office. —Sophia Compton, FOXNews.com, 3 Oct. 2025

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

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