Showing results for "dependant"

• a variation of dependent.

dependant

British  

/ dɪˈpɛndənt /

noun

1. a person who depends on another person, organization, etc, for support, aid, or sustenance, esp financial support

---

Commonly Confused

See dependent

Explanation

A dependant is someone who relies on someone else, possibly for financial support. You'll most often find this spelling in British English, where it's favored (or favoured!) in using the word as a noun. Don't be confused by the spelling. In the UK, the -ant ending often shows up for the noun but not the adjective. In the US, the -ent ending is more popular for both the noun and adjective. Either way, this word has to do with reliance. Kids are dependants (or dependents) of their parents, which means they depend on them for food and shelter.

Example Sentences

Volkswagen and Audi on Friday said their full-year financial guidance was dependant on an adequate supply of semiconductors.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 3, 2025

Prof Jones said the future of the site was dependant on what kind of use the local planning authority would allow.

From BBC • Apr. 17, 2025

Laos and Cambodia, which are among the poorest countries in the region, are heavily dependant on Chinese investment in supply chain infrastructure.

From BBC • Apr. 3, 2025

Under the FCA's plans, providers will have until December to consider and respond to complaints - but those cases will be hugely dependant on the judgement of the Supreme Court judges.

From BBC • Mar. 29, 2025

I feel so utterly dependant upon them, especially given the condition of my health and my inability to earn a living of my own.

From Through these Eyes The courageous struggle to find meaning in a life stressed with cancer by Isaacson, Lauren Ann