reliance

noun

re·​li·​ance ri-ˈlī-ən(t)s How to pronounce reliance (audio)
1
: the act of relying : the state of being reliant
2
: something or someone relied on

Examples of reliance in a Sentence

he's been the family's foremost reliance in times of trouble many times a baby's reliance on her parents
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Hydrogen is emerging as a crucial component of the global energy transition, offering a versatile and clean fuel option that could significantly reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Chris Gallagher, USA TODAY, 25 Jan. 2025 Diversify suppliers and explore domestic options: Building a network of diverse suppliers can reduce reliance on regions heavily affected by tariffs. Lyric Christian, Essence, 24 Jan. 2025 Why Sustainability and Ethics Can’t Be Afterthoughts At the heart of Boohoo’s challenges is its reliance on a high-volume, low-cost production model that no longer resonates with modern consumers. Kate Hardcastle, Forbes, 24 Jan. 2025 In addition, no serious reliance issues are at stake. Liz Tracey, JSTOR Daily, 24 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for reliance 

Word History

First Known Use

1606, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of reliance was in 1606

Dictionary Entries Near reliance

Cite this Entry

“Reliance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/reliance. Accessed 29 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

reliance

noun
re·​li·​ance ri-ˈlī-ən(t)s How to pronounce reliance (audio)
1
: the act of relying
2
: the condition or attitude of one who relies : dependence
3
: something or someone relied on

Legal Definition

reliance

noun
re·​li·​ance ri-ˈlī-əns How to pronounce reliance (audio)
1
: the act of relying
reliance on a promise
2
: reliance interest at interest 1

More from Merriam-Webster on reliance

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