dependenciescomputer-scienceterminology

In Computer Science, what's the opposite of a dependency?


In programming, the term dependency refers to a software component that is required by another piece of code to run.

What do you call the code that requires the dependency to run?


Solution

  • The opposite of a dependency is independency.

    The inverse of a dependency is a dependent. This term applies specifically in programming to refer to the piece of code that requires the dependency to run.


    The term is widely used. Some quotes to support the claim:

    Dependency being a relation between something that is dependent and something that it depends on, there is a little residual ambiguity on the direction that is meant. Regardless the terms used, it's recommended to provide the definitions. Supplier/Client are alternatives that are imho more easily understood although not universally suitable.