dependency

noun

de·​pen·​den·​cy di-ˈpen-dən(t)-sē How to pronounce dependency (audio)
plural dependencies
Synonyms of dependencynext
1
: dependence sense 1
2
: something that is dependent on something else
especially : a territorial unit under the jurisdiction of a nation but not formally annexed by it
3
: a building (such as a stable) that is an adjunct to a main dwelling

Synonyms of dependency

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Examples of dependency in a Sentence

the country's dependency on foreign oil a dependency on foreign oil
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Architecture choices are easier to change before dependencies become deeply embedded. — Swati Deepak Kumar, Forbes.com, 6 Oct. 2026 Given these concerns, companies are looking to diversify their AI usage, and reduce their dependency on the leading AI companies. — Emily Forlini, Fortune, 5 Oct. 2026 Moog is testing and qualifying Niron’s Iron Nitride permanent magnets in electromechanical actuators, which would reduce dependency on critical minerals – an innovative solution to a global problem. — Maria Mocerino, Interesting Engineering, 4 Oct. 2026 Staring down an assembly of the outraged, Digger spells out the ruthless logic of global capitalism and claims the world’s fuel dependency as the ultimate vindication. — Justin Chang, New Yorker, 30 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for dependency

Word History

Etymology

depend(ent) entry 1 + -ency

First Known Use

1594, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of dependency was in 1594

Rhymes for dependency

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Browse Nearby Words

dependence
dependency
dependent
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Cite this Entry

“Dependency.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dependency. Accessed 14 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

dependency

noun
de·​pend·​en·​cy
di-ˈpen-dən-sē
plural dependencies
1
: dependence sense 1
2
: a territory under the authority of a nation but not formally a part of it

Medical Definition

dependency

noun
de·​pen·​den·​cy -dən-sē How to pronounce dependency (audio)
plural dependencies
: dependence

More from Merriam-Webster on dependency

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about dependency

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