The meaning of DEPENDENT is determined or conditioned by another : contingent. How to use dependent in a sentence. Is it ever correct to use dependant instead of dependent?

Jan 8, 2026 · A dependent is a qualifying child or relative who relies on you for financial support. To be claimed on your tax return, they must meet specific requirements.

DEPENDENT definition: 1. needing the support of something or someone in order to continue existing or operating: 2…. Learn more.

DEPENDENT definition: relying on someone or something else for aid, support, etc. See examples of dependent used in a sentence.

"Dependant" is always used as a noun, referring to the person that depends on someone else's financial support (a minor person, in general). The word is used in British English only. "Dependent", on the …

Dependent definition: As an adjective, dependent describes something that relies on something else, whereas as a noun, it refers to someone who relies on another, primarily for financial support.

Dependant and dependent are not interchangeable. In British English, 'dependent' means reliant on and a dependant is a person (usually a child or a spouse). Americans use 'dependent' for both.

DEPENDENT meaning: 1 : decided or controlled by something else + on or upon; 2 : needing someone or something else for support, help, etc. usually + on or upon

The difference between dependent and dependant is merely a matter of preferred spelling. "Dependent" is the dominant form in American English for both the noun and adjective, while in British English, …

DEPENDENT meaning: 1. needing the support of something or someone in order to continue existing or operating: 2…. Learn more.