dependency

Or de·pend·an·cy

[dih-pen-duhn-see]

noun

plural

dependencies 

1. the state of being dependent; dependence.

2. something dependent or subordinate; appurtenance.

3. an outbuilding or annex.

4. a subject territory that is not an integral part of the ruling country.

dependency

/ dɪˈpɛndənsɪ /

noun

1. a territory subject to a state on which it does not border

2. a dependent or subordinate person or thing

3. psychol overreliance by a person on another person or on a drug, etc

4. another word for dependence

Other Word Forms

• nondependancy noun
• nondependency noun
• self-dependency noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of dependency¹

First recorded in 1585–95; dependence + -y ³

Example Sentences

If the answer is yes, you might be in some sort of addiction/dependency crisis.

From Los Angeles Times

Connected and Climate-Conscious Neighborhoods: To minimize car dependency, neighborhoods will be designed as walkable, bike-friendly hubs that mix housing, workspaces, and recreational areas.

From Los Angeles Times

She says using pouches may feel "trendy" or harmless, but there's a real risk of normalising stimulant use in teens and young adults, potentially creating patterns of dependency.

From BBC

With his wailing vocal style and "prince of darkness" reputation, Ozzy led the band to become global stars - before he was fired due mainly to his increasing dependency on drugs and alcohol.

From BBC

As well, welfare dependency is more pronounced among immigrants than the native born.

From Los Angeles Times