Dictionary

dependence

noun de·pen·dence \di-ˈpen-dən(t)s\

: the state of needing something or someone else for support, help, etc.

: the state of being addicted to alcohol or a drug

Full Definition of DEPENDENCE

1
:  the quality or state of being dependent; especially :  the quality or state of being influenced or determined by or subject to another
2
3
:  one that is relied on
4
a :  drug addiction <developed a dependence on painkillers>
b :  habituation 2b

Variants of DEPENDENCE

de·pen·dence also de·pen·dance \di-ˈpen-dən(t)s\

First Known Use of DEPENDENCE

15th century
DEPENDANCE Defined for Kids

dependence

noun de·pen·dence \di-ˈpen-dəns\

Definition of DEPENDENCE for Kids

1
:  a condition of being influenced and caused by something else
2
:  a state of having to rely on someone or something <dependence on charity>
3
:  2trust 1, reliance
4
:  addiction to drugs or alcohol
Medical Dictionary

dependence

noun de·pen·dence \di-ˈpen-dən(t)s\

Medical Definition of DEPENDENCE

1
:  the quality or state of being dependent upon or unduly subject to the influence of another
2
a :  drug addiction b :  habituation 2b

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Next Word in the Dictionary: dependencyPrevious Word in the Dictionary: dependableAll Words Near: dependence
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