Depend

Definition

Depend is a verb that means to rely on someone or something for support, assistance, or existence. It can also imply that something is contingent upon a particular condition or factor.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪˈpɛnd/
• Respelling: dih-PEND

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪˈpɛnd/
• Respelling: dih-PEND

Etymology

The word "depend" originates from the Latin "dependere," meaning "to hang down or rely on," derived from "de-" (down) and "pendere" (to hang). It entered Middle English with meanings related to reliance and contingency.

Derivatives

• Dependent (adjective)
• Dependable (adjective)
• Dependence (noun)
• Dependency (noun)
• Independence (noun)

Synonyms

• Rely
• Trust
• Count on

Antonyms

• Disregard
• Ignore
• Independence

Usage

The term "depend" is used to indicate reliance or conditionality, as in "You can depend on her for support." It also denotes situations where an outcome is contingent upon certain factors, such as "The decision will depend on the results of the survey."

Related Terms

• Reliance: The act of depending on someone or something.
• Contingency: A condition that depends on a particular event or circumstance.
• Support: Assistance or backing provided to someone or something.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To rely on for support, assistance, or sustenance: Refers to the act of trusting or counting on someone or something.
  • Example: "She had to depend on her friends for help."
• To be contingent or conditional upon something: Describes a situation where one outcome is based on another condition or factor.
  • Example: "Whether we go will depend on the weather."