interdependence

UK: ˌɪn.tə.dɪˈpen.dəns | US: ˌɪn.t̬ɚ.dɪˈpen.dəns

Definition

  1. n. the state of being dependent upon one another; mutual reliance

Structure
inter <between>depend <rely>ence <noun suffix>
Etymology

The word "interdependence" combines three morphemes:

  1. "inter-" (from Latin inter, meaning "between") – indicating reciprocity or mutual action.
  2. "depend" (from Latin dependēre, "to hang from") – originally implying physical hanging, later evolving to mean reliance.
  3. "-ence" (a noun-forming suffix from Latin -entia) – denoting a state or condition.
    The term emerged in the 19th century to describe systems where entities rely on each other, reflecting modern societal and ecological concepts.
Examples

  1. Global trade highlights the economic interdependence of nations.

  2. Healthy ecosystems thrive on the interdependence of species.

  3. The project emphasized team interdependence to achieve shared goals.

  4. Technological advances have increased our interdependence on digital networks.

  5. Their friendship was built on mutual trust and interdependence.