Definition

Describing a relationship where two people are overly reliant on each other, often to the detriment of their individual well-being.

Example

Their codependent relationship made it difficult for either of them to pursue their own interests.

Conversation

I’ve been thinking about my last relationship, and I realize it was pretty codependent.

Yeah, sometimes that kind of dynamic can be really unhealthy.

Exactly! It’s hard to find balance when both people rely on each other too much.

Right, it’s important to have your own space and independence.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Codependent → It is formed from "co-" (meaning together) and "dependent" (from Latin "dependere", meaning to hang down or rely on). The word describes a relationship where one person is dependent on another, emphasizing the mutual reliance between them.

Memory Tip

Think of people who are 'together' ('co-') in their reliance on each other — that's what codependent means.

Visually Confused Words