dependence

or de·pend·ance

[ dih-pen-duh ns ]
/ dɪˈpɛn dəns /

noun

the state of relying on or needing someone or something for aid, support, or the like.
reliance; confidence; trust: Her complete reliability earned her our dependence.
an object of reliance or trust.
the state of being conditional or contingent on something, as through a natural or logical sequence: the dependence of an effect upon a cause.
the state of being psychologically or physiologically dependent on a drug after a prolonged period of use.
subordination or subjection: the dependence of Martinique upon France.

Origin of dependence

1400–50; late Middle English dependaunce < Old French dependance, equivalent to depend(re) (see depend) + -ance -ence

OTHER WORDS FROM dependence

British Dictionary definitions for overdependence (1 of 2)

overdependence
/ (ˌəʊvədɪˈpɛndəns) /

noun

the state or fact of being too dependent, esp for help or support

British Dictionary definitions for overdependence (2 of 2)

dependence

sometimes US dependance

/ (dɪˈpɛndəns) /

noun

the state or fact of being dependent, esp for support or help
reliance; trust; confidence
rare an object or person relied upon

Medical definitions for overdependence

dependence
[ dĭ-pĕndəns ]

n.

The state of being dependent, as for support.
Subordination to someone or something needed or greatly desired.
A compulsive or chronic need; an addiction.

Other words from dependence

de•penden•cy n.