interdependent

adjective

in·​ter·​de·​pen·​dent ˌin-tər-di-ˈpen-dənt How to pronounce interdependent (audio)
: dependent upon one another : mutually dependent
interdependent statistical variables
… the interdependent gyrations of double suns …—James Joyce
… the interrelationships between social groupings were reciprocal and interdependent.—Howard P. Chudacoff
In an interdependent world, every nation is dependent upon every other.—Michael Novak
interdependently
ˌin-tər-di-ˈpen-dənt-lē How to pronounce interdependent (audio)
adverb
Atlantis is to have its own economic activities, but the city is to function interdependently with other centers in the greater Cape Town region. —John Western

Examples of interdependent in a Sentence

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.
How excessive tension interferes with breathing Breathing mechanics and core stability are interdependent. — Dana Santas, CNN Money, 6 Aug. 2026 One person is responsible for several interdependent functions, while the consequences of error are intensely personal. — Kristin Vance Richards, Forbes.com, 29 July 2026 The endeavor ultimately showed how the group’s interdependent dynamic made for constant self-incrimination and insensitivity masquerading as selflessness. — Dennis Perkins, Entertainment Weekly, 28 July 2026 Former Republican Secretary of State and election law attorney Scott Gessler, who represented plaintiffs in court, says Democrats tried to circumvent the constitution by bringing two separate but interdependent measures. — Shaun Boyd, CBS News, 30 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for interdependent

Word History

First Known Use

1838, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of interdependent was in 1838

Rhymes for interdependent

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Browse Nearby Words

interdependence
interdependent
interdetermination
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Cite this Entry

“Interdependent.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/interdependent. Accessed 9 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on interdependent

Nglish: Translation of interdependent for Spanish Speakers

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