DEPENDANCE Synonyms: 46 Similar and Opposite Words

dependence

noun

di-ˈpen-dən(t)s

variants also dependance

Definition of dependence

as in dependency

the quality or state of needing something or someone a baby's total dependence upon his or her parents for every one of life's needs

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in reliance

something or someone to which one looks for support ultimately rice became the chief dependence in that state

Synonyms & Similar Words

as in addiction

a physiological need for certain drugs acquired a dependence on prescription painkillers following back surgery

Synonyms & Similar Words

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of dependence Stress-Test Supplier Concentration And Dependence Finance leaders should weigh private-label margin gains against strategic dependence and resilience. — Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 18 Sep. 2026 And about a third of users were taking the drug for longer than six months, increasing the likelihood of dependence. — Paula Span, Miami Herald, 17 Sep. 2026 Europe is central to Carney's effort to reduce that dependence. — Arkansas Online, 16 Sep. 2026 As a consequence, states such as Saudi Arabia and Kuwait are signing security agreements with other countries such as Pakistan to reduce their dependence on a security partner that doesn’t provide much security at all. — Daniel Depetris, Chicago Tribune, 15 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for dependence

Recent Examples of Synonyms for dependence

Noun

Cutting overseas dependency China possesses extensive rubidium and cesium reserves locked inside specialty lithium ores and salt-lake brines.

— Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 15 Sep. 2026
One of the toughest challenges for families contending with substance dependency and psychiatric disorders is, at times, simply letting go.

— Gary Baum, HollywoodReporter, 14 Sep. 2026

Definition of dependency

Noun

The ads for online gambling can seem as ubiquitous as the score, luring legions into a new scourge of addiction.

— Tracy Weber, ProPublica, 18 Sep. 2026
While Sheik sought treatment for alcohol addiction after canceling a tour in 2011, his stage and studio career never slowed.

— Chuck Schilken, Los Angeles Times, 18 Sep. 2026

Definition of addiction

Noun

The strap anchors between the first two toes with a smooth leather toe post, holding the foot securely while leaving the sides and back of the foot exposed in a classic mule style.

— Karla Rodriguez, Footwear News, 16 Sep. 2026
Earlier Tuesday evening, NBC4 anchor Colleen Williams said the station had lost contact with its crew.

— Karina Tsui, CNN Money, 16 Sep. 2026

Definition of anchor

Noun

Simple knits are the backbone of a fall wardrobe, and the Zesica V-neck Sweater has the understated look that Rag & Bone does so well.

— Rosie Marder, Travel + Leisure, 15 Sep. 2026
In summary, Linde represents a rare and highly attractive opportunity to invest in the hardware backbone of AI at a standard defensive valuation.

— Harvey Stober, CNBC, 15 Sep. 2026

Definition of backbone

Noun

Once inside, curved cherrywood ceilings and tree-like pillars tower over the tables, booths and bar for a cinematic effect.

— Stephanie Breijo, Los Angeles Times, 17 Sep. 2026
High jewelry, which starts at $50,000 for De Beers London, is the third pillar and one that is pulling more than its weight.

— Lily Templeton, Footwear News, 17 Sep. 2026