rely

American  

[ri-lahy] / rɪˈlaɪ /

verb (used without object)

relied, relying

1. to depend confidently; put trust in (usually followed by on orupon ).

   You can rely on her work.

   Synonyms:

   bank, count, trust

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rely British  

/ rɪˈlaɪ /

verb

1. to be dependent (on)

   he relies on his charm

2. to have trust or confidence (in)

   you can rely on us

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Other Word Forms

• misrely verb (used without object)

Etymology

Origin of rely

First recorded in 1300–50; Middle English relien, from Middle French relier, from Latin religāre “to bind fast, hold firmly”; re-, ligament

Example Sentences

“We rely on long-standing, robust and tested policies and procedures, which have proven successful in the secure and timely delivery of election mail.”

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 4, 2026

In those settings, microbes could rely on sunlight for energy and avoid animals that would otherwise consume them, especially during stressful periods or after mass extinctions.

From Science Daily • Apr. 3, 2026

Before you get to that stage, however, club owners and chairmen will rely on their sporting director and chief executive to compile a list of names.

From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026

Where long-simmered soups rely on time to build depth, these build it through contrast: creamy against sharp, rich against bright, soft against crisp.

From Salon • Apr. 3, 2026

The headmistress paused, and Penelope was surprised to see her take one of those deep, calming breaths that all Swanburne girls were trained to rely upon when anxious.

From "The Interrupted Tale" by Maryrose Wood