dependence

noun

de·​pen·​dence di-ˈpen-dən(t)s How to pronounce dependence (audio)
variants or less commonly dependance
1
: the quality or state of being dependent
especially : the quality or state of being influenced or determined by or subject to another
2
3
: one that is relied on
4
a
: drug addiction
developed a dependence on painkillers

Examples of dependence in a Sentence

The company was hurt by its dependence on government loans. Our dependence upon foreign oil makes our economy vulnerable. a harmful dependence on foreign oil
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Leverage Open-Source Tools Leveraging open-source tools is a smart step to reduce platform dependence. Expert Panel®, Forbes, 21 Nov. 2024 The company highlighted its dependence on crypto miner sales as a primary revenue source. Quartz Bot, Quartz, 20 Nov. 2024 The casual collection of men’s and women’s sportswear shuns logos, keeps its prices real and affordable, and steers clear of the fashion industry’s promotional dependence. David Moin, WWD, 18 Nov. 2024 Akamai continues to focus on expanding its security and compute solutions and highlights its dependence on innovation and strategic acquisitions for growth. Quartz Bot, Quartz, 8 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for dependence 

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of dependence was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near dependence

Cite this Entry

“Dependence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dependence. Accessed 1 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

dependence

noun
de·​pend·​ence
di-ˈpen-dən(t)s
1
: the quality or state of being dependent
especially : the quality or state of being influenced by or subject to another
2
3
: something on which one relies
4
: a drug addiction

Medical Definition

dependence

noun
de·​pen·​dence di-ˈpen-dən(t)s How to pronounce dependence (audio)
1
: the quality or state of being dependent upon or unduly subject to the influence of another
2
a
: drug addiction

More from Merriam-Webster on dependence

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!