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Synonyms

rely

American  
[ri-lahy] / rɪˈlaɪ /

verb (used without object)

relied, relying
  1. to depend confidently; put trust in (usually followed by on orupon ).

    You can rely on her work.

    Synonyms:
    bank, count, trust

rely British  
/ rɪˈlaɪ /

verb

  1. to be dependent (on)

    he relies on his charm

  2. to have trust or confidence (in)

    you can rely on us

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

  • misrely verb (used without object)

Etymology

Origin of rely

First recorded in 1300–50; Middle English relien, from Middle French relier, from Latin religāre “to bind fast, hold firmly”; re-, ligament

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The findings may have broader implications for people who rely on caffeine at night, including shift workers, health care professionals, and military personnel.

From Science Daily

Instead, researchers relied on micro-CT scanning, which allowed them to visualize the full skeleton in just a few months.

From Science Daily

The new research shows that cells do not rely on chance alone.

From Science Daily

Companies rely on a massive trove of data to train and maintain AI systems, increasing the demand for data centers that house computing equipment.

From Los Angeles Times

“Other rattlesnakes prefer to rely on their excellent camouflage and may not rattle or move until the person is very close,” he said.

From Los Angeles Times