codependent

American  

[koh-di-pen-duhnt] / ˌkoʊ dɪˈpɛn dənt /

adjective

1. of or relating to a relationship in which one person is physically or psychologically addicted, as to alcohol or gambling, and the other person is psychologically dependent on the first in an unhealthy way.

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noun

1. one who is codependent or in a codependent relationship.

Other Word Forms

• codependence
  noun
• codependency
  noun

Etymology

Origin of codependent

First recorded in 1985–90

Example Sentences

Codependent habits are really about managing other people, and then people-pleasing is one way we can do that.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 15, 2026

There are 12-step programs like CoDA and Al-Anon that address this, and there are books like Codependent No More that do as well.

From Slate • Aug. 8, 2018

Let’s call this type the Acquiescing Codependent, sometimes known as the “Pleaser.”

From Salon • Jun. 24, 2017

Codependent Lesbian Space Alien Seeks Same tells the story of a reticent, greetings card shop worker whounwittingly falls in love with a lesbian alien called Zoinx.

From The Guardian • Feb. 19, 2011

Women rush to her, clutching her best-selling Codependent No More, thrusting worn copies toward the author for an inscription.

From Time Magazine Archive