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 build a more capable, resilient farming system with lower input dependency and better farm-level decision-making. Sj Studio, Footwear News, 21 Apr. 2026 At the same time, the conflict is also likely to bolster demand for China’s world-leading green energy manufacturers as countries push to wean themselves off fossil fuel dependency, potentially alleviating a downward price spiral that recently pushed Beijing to curb solar overcapacity. Jeronimo Gonzalez, semafor.com, 20 Apr. 2026 While Rue’s complex relationship with Jules is marked by an intense, unhealthy co-dependency, in real life, Zendaya has found her rock in Tom Holland. Katie Mannion, PEOPLE, 19 Apr. 2026 As large language models are integrated into American culture, there’s been an understandable flood of attention to the way chatbots can reinforce delusions and foster emotional dependency. Theresa Gaffney, STAT, 16 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for dependency
Recent Examples of Synonyms for dependency
Noun
  • Trump’s first term was marked—and, in the view of those closest to him, limited—by its dependence on Administration officials who were, at best, skeptical of his aims.
    Benjamin Wallace-Wells, New Yorker, 26 Apr. 2026
  • High oil prices strengthen the case for renewable energy and reduce dependence on volatile supply routes.
    Fabiano Maisonnave, Los Angeles Times, 26 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • But critics say widespread reliance comes with health and environmental risks, as long-term exposure has been linked to cancer and other chronic diseases.
    Christiana Freitag, Chicago Tribune, 29 Apr. 2026
  • At the same time, firms are reducing their reliance on external labor.
    Jeffrey Sonnenfeld, Fortune, 29 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Dependency.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/dependency. Accessed 1 May. 2026.

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