dependency
UK: dɪˈpendənsi | US: dɪˈpendənsi
n. 1. A state of relying on someone or something else for support or survival.
n. 2. A territory controlled by a more powerful nation.
n. 3. (Computing) A relationship where one software component requires another to function.
dependency = depend<to hang from> + ency<noun suffix>
- depend: From Latin dependēre ("to hang down"), combining de- (down) + pendēre (to hang). Implies reliance as if "hanging" on another's support.
- ency: A noun-forming suffix derived from Latin -entia, indicating a state or condition (e.g., "frequency," "urgency").
Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to Latin dependēre, reflecting the literal idea of "hanging from" something. Over time, it evolved metaphorically to signify reliance (16th century). The suffix -ency systematized abstract nouns in English, turning "depend" into "dependency" to describe a state of reliance or subordination (e.g., colonial dependencies).
The child’s dependency on her parents decreased as she grew older.
The island was once a dependency of the British Empire.
Developers must resolve all software dependencies before deployment.
His emotional dependency made it hard to form independent relationships.
The country reduced its economic dependency on oil exports.