codependency
UK[ˌkəʊ.dɪˈpen.dən.si]US[ˌkoʊ.dɪˈpen.dən.si]
n
A situation in which one person is psychologically dependent on another who is also dependent on them, often in an unhealthy way.
n
The state of being mutually reliant, especially in a way that is emotionally harmful or prevents personal growth.
Morpheme Breakdown
co
depend
ency
co
together
depend
rely
ency
state of
Etymology
The word is a modern psychological construct, assembled in the mid-20th century from established English morphemes. The prefix 'co-', from Latin 'cum', introduces the critical element of mutuality. It is attached to the verb 'depend', itself from Latin 'dependere' ('de-' down + 'pendere' to hang), which conveys the core idea of reliance. Finally, the abstract noun-forming suffix '-ency' (from Latin '-entia') transforms the action into a defined state or condition. Thus, the literal logic of "a state of hanging down together" evolved into the modern psychological term describing an unhealthy, mutually reinforcing state of emotional reliance.
Analysis
Structure: co (together) + depend (rely) + ency (state of)
- co: from Latin 'cum', meaning 'together with'. A prefix indicating jointness or partnership.
- depend: from Latin 'dependere', meaning 'to hang from'. The core verb meaning to rely on or be contingent upon.
- ency: from Latin '-entia', a suffix forming nouns denoting a state or quality.
Examples
Their relationship was characterized by a deep codependency, making it difficult for either to leave.
Therapy often focuses on breaking patterns of codependency to foster individual autonomy.
The book outlines the signs of codependency in families affected by addiction.