rely
UK[rɪˈlaɪ]US[rɪˈlaɪ]
v
To need or depend on someone or something for support, help, or in order to be able to do something.
v
To trust or have confidence in someone or something.
Etymology
The verb 'rely' entered English in the early 14th century from Old French relier, meaning "to fasten, attach, or assemble." This Old French term derived from Latin religare, a compound of re- (meaning "back" or "again") and ligare (meaning "to bind"). The original Latin sense was thus "to bind tightly back" or "to bind fast." Over time in French and then in English, the physical meaning of binding evolved into a metaphorical one: from being physically attached or bound to something, to being connected through trust or dependence. The modern abstract senses of depending on or placing confidence in someone are the result of this semantic shift from a concrete action to a psychological and social state.
Analysis
The word 'rely' is a simplex verb borrowed from Old French. It does not contain separable, productive morphemes in modern English.
Examples
You can rely on me to keep your secret.
The region relies heavily on tourism for its income.
We rely on accurate data to make informed decisions.