What does interdependence mean?
Interdependence is the state of being mutually dependent, meaning that people, organizations, states, or environmental systems rely on one another in important ways. It differs from simple dependence because the relationship is reciprocal: each participant both gives and receives support, resources, influence, or services. The term frequently appears in discussions of economics, international relations, ecology, technology, and social institutions. For example, modern economies are interdependent through trade and shared financial systems, while ecosystems depend on interactions among species and environmental conditions. Interdependence is usually a neutral or positive concept, presenting connection as a source of resilience and cooperation, but it can also suggest vulnerability when disruption in one part of a network affects many others. The word is especially useful for recognizing that apparently separate choices and institutions rarely operate in complete isolation.
nounThe state of being mutually dependent, with each person, group, institution, or system relying on others for support, resources, or influence. It describes relationships in which no participant is wholly independent of the others.
- The condition of being mutually dependent or closely interconnected.
- A relationship characterized by reciprocal reliance among people, groups, institutions, or systems.
"The growing interdependence of national economies makes international cooperation both more necessary and more complex."
"The interdependence of pollinators and flowering crops makes protecting both essential to long-term food production."
"Her speech emphasized the interdependence of personal freedom and social responsibility."
Interdependence names the hidden bargain of modern life: nearly every achievement ultimately rests on someone else's work, knowledge, or resources.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does interdependence come from?
Interdependence combines the Latin prefix inter-, meaning “between” or “among,” with dependent, which comes from Latin dependere, meaning “to hang upon.” The prefix stresses the reciprocal relationship among multiple parties rather than dependence on a single source. Related English words include dependent, dependency, expensive, and pension, all ultimately associated with the Latin root pendere, “to hang” or “suspend.”
Related word forms
How interdependence is actually used
The term is widely used in academic, political, economic, and environmental contexts. It is generally neutral to mildly positive, although it can be used critically when describing undesirable dependence between systems or institutions.
Easily confused with interdependence
Interdependence emphasizes a reciprocal relationship in which parties depend on one another, whereas dependency can refer to one-sided reliance without such reciprocity.