Jan 8, 2026 · A dependent is a qualifying child or relative who relies on you for financial support. To claim a dependent for tax credits or deductions, the dependent must meet specific requirements.

In summary, dependant can be used for the noun in either British or American English, but dependent for either noun or adjective is a safe choice in American English.

Being dependent means relying on something. Many people are dependent on coffee in the morning, while a dependent is someone who relies on you for financial support.

Definition of dependent adjective in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

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

Define dependent. dependent synonyms, dependent pronunciation, dependent translation, English dictionary definition of dependent. adj. 1. Determined, influenced, or controlled by something else.

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.

Oct 24, 2024 · A dependent relies on someone else for financial support and can include children or other relatives. Taxpayers with one or more dependents may be eligible for certain tax credits.

Generally, “dependent” refers to an individual who relies on support from another individual and usually cannot exist or sustain themselves independently without the aid or support of someone else.