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.

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

Jul 8, 2025 · 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: relying on someone or something else for aid, support, etc.. See examples of DEPENDENT used in a sentence.

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.

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

Jun 16, 2025 · If someone is dependent on something or someone, they need them in order to succeed or be able to survive. Just 26 per cent of households are married couples with dependent children.

"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 …

May 14, 2025 · Dependent (noun): A person who relies on another, typically for financial or emotional support. The term "dependent" carries a range of meanings across various contexts, from personal …