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 Brazil also has a complete fiber-to-fashion supply chain and can source most key raw materials domestically, significantly reducing dependence on Asia. — Sj Studio, Footwear News, 2 Sep. 2026 That creates more meetings, more exceptions and too much dependence on a few people who hold everything in their heads. — Nicholas Cormier, Forbes.com, 2 Sep. 2026 For staff represented by the CSUEU, the major demands include salary raises, reducing dependence on temporary workers and ensuring job security. — Tarini Mehta, Sacbee.com, 2 Sep. 2026 But whole-leaf kratom — the natural product and its extracts — has also led to dependence and death, according to McCurdy’s own research. — Anjeanette Damon, ProPublica, 1 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

Ukraine repeatedly has targeted oil facilities that form the backbone of Russia’s economy, one of the world’s largest energy producers.

— Samya Kullab, Los Angeles Times, 4 Sep. 2026
Building the nuclear backbone One focus will be NANO Nuclear’s HALEU transportation systems.

— Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 4 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

Definition of pillar

Noun

The record was chiefly produced by Jepsen mainstay Kyle Shearer, who provides Day and Night‘s most danceable tracks, while Bullion, CJ Baran, Magnus Lidehäll, and more, make appearances too.

— Jaeden Pinder, Rolling Stone, 14 Sep. 2026
The towering silhouette became a mainstay in closets everywhere, becoming a fashion staple for both men and women.

— Amina Ayoud, Footwear News, 14 Sep. 2026