Synonyms of dependence

dependence

noun

di-ˈpen-dən(t)s 

variants also dependance

1

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

• dependency
• reliance
• reciprocity
• relativity
• trust
• confidence
• faith
• stock
• credence

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• independence
• independency
• self-sufficiency
• self-reliance
• self-support
• autonomy
• self-dependence
• sovereignty
• self-determination

2

as in reliance

something or someone to which one looks for support

ultimately rice became the chief dependence in that state

Synonyms & Similar Words

• reliance
• anchor
• backbone
• pillar
• crutch
• mainstay
• standby
• buttress
• right hand
• spine
• refuge
• prop
• handmaiden
• anchorage
• sinew(s)
• harbor
• bolsterer
• stay

3

as in addiction

a physiological need for certain drugs

acquired a dependence on prescription painkillers following back surgery

Synonyms & Similar Words

• addiction
• tolerance
• habit
• monkey
• alcoholism
• jones
• habituation
• morphinism
• heroinism

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of dependence

As Washington moves to reduce dependence on China for critical minerals, tungsten is becoming an increasingly important part of the supply-chain debate. — Bojan Stojkovski, Interesting Engineering, 27 Sep. 2026

Zimbabwe is among several African nations resisting Washington’s push to replace broad health assistance with country-by-country agreements emphasizing domestic financing and reduced donor dependence. — Farai Mutsaka, Los Angeles Times, 25 Sep. 2026

Washington should use commercial investment and competition to expand viable launch sites and avoid dependence on any one provider or location. — Mark Montgomery, The Orlando Sentinel, 25 Sep. 2026

Nicotine dependence alters brain chemistry by stimulating neurotransmitters like dopamine that govern mood and pleasure, according to Cleveland Clinic. — Khloe Quill, FOXNews.com, 24 Sep. 2026