interdependency
/ˌɪntərdiˈpɛndənsi/
Definition
A state where multiple entities or systems are mutually reliant on one another, meaning the failure or error of one can directly impact the performance and stability of the others.
Etymology
The word is formed from the prefix 'inter-' (between or among) combined with 'dependency,' which derives from the Latin 'dependere' (to hang down from). It evolved to describe the complex, reciprocal relationships that characterize modern organizational and technical systems.
In the news
The article uses this term to describe how supply chains and service networks are linked, noting that AI-related errors in one node can cascade through the entire system. This shared risk creates a practical barrier that makes business leaders hesitant to adopt AI technology too quickly.
Only 11% of S&P 500 firms have deeply integrated AI, MIT study finds
Read the full article ↗MarketScale