Dependent

Definition

Dependent refers to relying on someone or something else for support, assistance, or sustenance. It can also describe something that is conditioned or determined by something else.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪˈpɛndənt/
• Respelling: dih-PEN-duhnt

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪˈpɛndənt/
• Respelling: dih-PEN-duhnt

The pronunciation of "dependent" is identical in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "dependent" comes from the Latin "dependere," meaning "to hang down from" or "to rely on." It is derived from "de-" meaning "from" and "pendere" meaning "to hang." The term entered the English language in the 14th century and originally referred to something that relies on another for support.

Derivatives

• Depend (verb)
• Dependence (noun)
• Dependency (noun)
• Independent (adjective)
• Independence (noun)

Synonyms

• Reliant
• Subordinate
• Contingent

Antonyms

• Independent
• Self-sufficient
• Autonomous

Usage

The term "dependent" is commonly used in various contexts, such as financial, emotional, or legal scenarios. For example, children are often described as "dependents" of their parents due to their reliance on them for financial support. It can also refer to conditions that are influenced by external factors, such as a result being "dependent" on certain variables.

Related Terms

• Reliance: The state of depending on or trusting in someone or something.
• Contingency: A future event or circumstance that is possible but cannot be predicted with certainty.
• Autonomy: The right or condition of self-government or self-sufficiency.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Relying on someone or something for support: Describes a person or thing that requires another entity for survival, sustenance, or assistance.
  • Example: "The child is dependent on her parents for financial support."
• Determined or conditioned by something else: Refers to an outcome or state that is influenced by external factors.
  • Example: "The success of the project is dependent on the team's cooperation."

Noun

• A person who relies on someone else for support: Refers to an individual, such as a child or family member, who is financially or emotionally supported by another person.
  • Example: "He listed his daughter as a dependent on his tax return."