Definition of dependencynext
as in dependence
the quality or state of needing something or someone she was concerned about his heavy dependency on coffee to get him moving in the morning

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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 dependency The goal is to encourage mindfulness, reduce screen dependency and create more present, offline experiences. Hanna Wickes, Miami Herald, 16 May 2026 Those 191 are, in varying degrees, already dependent, and that dependency is growing. David Liberman, Fortune, 16 May 2026 However, the mutual attraction quickly spirals into obsession and dependency. Marta Balaga, Variety, 16 May 2026 Aleksandar Pavlovic is a penetrative passer and a fine orchestrator, but without replicating his abilities, Bayern risk creating a dependency and becoming reliant on a solitary source of quick, forward possession. Sebastian Stafford-Bloor, New York Times, 7 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for dependency
Recent Examples of Synonyms for dependency
Noun
  • The world needs practical pathways that help diversify economies, attract new industries and manage declining fossil fuel dependence without severe social disruption.
    María Mendiluce, Forbes.com, 26 May 2026
  • For small businesses caught in the middle, deeper dependence on Amazon’s logistics means rising fees, with no leverage to push back.
    Patrick van Esch, The Conversation, 25 May 2026
Noun
  • She’s spent decades exploring how natural materials such as wood and cellulose can replace plastics and help industries reduce their reliance on fossil fuels.
    Georgina Jedikovska, Interesting Engineering, 27 May 2026
  • In fact, Socrates himself refused to write anything down, fearing that reliance on external records would weaken the mind.
    Tomas Chamorro-Premuzic, Forbes.com, 27 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Dependency.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/dependency. Accessed 29 May. 2026.

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