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 Wall Streeters thus far have largely been uneasy about the company’s $79 billion in debt and dependence on declining businesses like linear television. — Dade Hayes, Deadline, 8 Oct. 2026 The new material is being introduced as part of a collection of 26 pieces aimed at reducing the dependence on conventional synthetic materials derived from fossil fuels such as nylon and polyester. — Arthur Zaczkiewicz, Footwear News, 8 Oct. 2026 The caution also reflected Ledgebrook’s early dependence on other companies. — Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 7 Oct. 2026 Longer term, reducing America’s dependence on oil could help families save on energy costs. — Sanya Carley, Time, 7 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for dependence

Recent Examples of Synonyms for dependence

Noun

Architecture choices are easier to change before dependencies become deeply embedded.

— Swati Deepak Kumar, Forbes.com, 6 Oct. 2026
Given these concerns, companies are looking to diversify their AI usage, and reduce their dependency on the leading AI companies.

— Emily Forlini, Fortune, 5 Oct. 2026

Definition of dependency

Noun

Securing domestic lithium supplies According to ORNL, the technology could reduce reliance on overseas processing and create a domestic source of materials necessary for battery production.

— Georgina Jedikovska, Interesting Engineering, 8 Oct. 2026
If extra debt payments are causing late payments on utility bills, overdrafts or a reliance on credit for groceries and other necessities, the repayment pace may be too aggressive.

— Angelica Leicht, CBS News, 7 Oct. 2026

Definition of reliance

Noun

That growth has fueled disputes with states and Native American tribes over regulatory authority, while drawing scrutiny from sports leagues over game integrity and from advocates who say the platforms’ accessibility increases the risk of addiction.

— Camila Grigera Naón, Fortune, 9 Oct. 2026
As live shopping grows, platforms like Whatnot have also grappled with issues such as theft and addiction claims.

— Queenie Wong, Los Angeles Times, 9 Oct. 2026

Definition of addiction

Noun

Broadcaster, journalist, Today anchor and avid Wordle player Savannah Guthrie is set to host.

— Max Goldbart, Deadline, 7 Oct. 2026
Meta needs its personal agent to be an anchor app for the company, which has been trailing competitors like OpenAI and Google in the red-hot AI market.

— Jonathan Vanian, CNBC, 7 Oct. 2026

Definition of anchor

Noun

In the Dodgers’ quest for a third straight World Series title, the rotation is going to have to serve as the backbone.

— Maddie Lee, Los Angeles Times, 10 Oct. 2026
Cryptography forms the backbone of online encryption, used in web browsers, secure messaging and online banking.

— Will Barker, TheWeek, 9 Oct. 2026

Definition of backbone

Noun

The rural economy, largely dependent on farming, is also an important pillar of consumer spending.

— Priyanka Salve, CNBC, 8 Oct. 2026
The ground floor features an 18-seat bar with a rum wall backsplash, carved Moai heads and high-tops that spill out to a lush faux-grass courtyard framed in palm trees and tiki-totem pillars.

— Phillip Valys, Sun Sentinel, 8 Oct. 2026

Definition of pillar

Noun

Both styles merge the brand mainstays with Anderson’s playful use of the straddle strap detail most commonly used on penny loafers.

— Stephen Garner, Footwear News, 12 Oct. 2026
Over the years, the event has attracted theater mainstays from Lin-Manuel Miranda to Rachel Zegler.

— Rebecca Rubin, Variety, 12 Oct. 2026