Definition of "dependence" []

• The state of being dependent, as for support. (noun)
• Subordination to someone or something needed or greatly desired. (noun)
• Trust; reliance. See Synonyms at trust. (noun)
• The state of being determined, influenced, or controlled by something else. (noun)
• A compulsive or chronic need; an addiction: an alcohol dependence. (noun)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

• "The website identifies the primary reason for this revision as the view that the term "dependence" is misleading: We are urged to not confuse the fact that tolerance and withdrawal are normal responses to some prescribed read: medically necessary medications that affect the central nervous system, and thus these physical states should not be seen as an illness."
• "This dependence is absolute, despotic; but it unshackles as well."
• "The only way we as a country are going to get away from our fossil fuel dependence is to tackle the biggest areas of energy waste."