dependent

¹de·pen·dent

adj \di-ˈpen-dənt\

Definition of DEPENDENT

1

: hanging down

2

a : determined or conditioned by another : contingent <plans that are dependent on the weather> b (1) : relying on another for support <dependent children> (2) : affected with a drug dependence c : subject to another's jurisdiction <a dependent territory> d : subordinate 3a <dependent clauses>

3

a : not mathematically or statistically independent <a dependent set of vectors> <dependent events> b : equivalent 6a <dependent equations>

— de·pen·dent·ly adverb

Examples of DEPENDENT

1. He has been alcohol dependent for several years.
2. <the dependent willow branches swayed in the gentle breeze>

Origin of DEPENDENT

Middle English dependant, from Anglo-French, present participle of dependre

First Known Use: 14th century

Related to DEPENDENT

Synonyms: dangling, hanging, pendent (or pendant), pendulous, suspended

Antonyms: independent, unconditional

Related Words: drooping, flagging, lolling, sagging, wilting

Near Antonyms: absolute, all-out, arrant, categorical (also categoric), complete, consummate, out-and-out, outright, perfect, simple, total, ultimate, unadulterated, unalloyed, unconditional, unequivocal, unmitigated, unqualified, utter; basal, basic, fundamental, primary

see all synonyms and antonyms

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Rhymes with DEPENDENT

appendant, ascendant, attendant, defendant, descendant, impendent, intendant, transcendent