Definition

Needing someone or something else for support or help; not able to exist or function alone.

Example

Many children are dependent on their parents for care and support.

Conversation

I feel a bit dependent on my friends for support lately.

That's completely okay; we all need help sometimes.

Yeah, I guess being dependent isn't always a bad thing.

Exactly! It's good to lean on each other when times are tough.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A person who relies on someone else for help or support, often financially.

Example

The government provides assistance to dependents of low-income families.

Conversation

I was thinking about how some people are really dependent on their families.

Yeah, it can be tough when they rely on others for everything.

Do you think it's okay to be dependent sometimes?

Root Explanation

Dependent → It is formed from "de-" (meaning down from or away) and "pendere" (meaning to hang). The word "dependent" describes something that hangs down from or relies on something else.

Memory Tip

Think of something that 'hangs down' ('pendere') from another source, indicating that it relies on it.

Visually Confused Words