- to be dependent (on): he relies on his charm
- to have trust or confidence (in): you can rely on us
WordReference Random House Learner's Dictionary of American English © 2026
re•ly /rɪˈlaɪ/USA pronunciation
v. [~ + on/upon + object], -lied, -ly•ing.
WordReference Random House Unabridged Dictionary of American English © 2026- to put trust in:Can I rely on your support?
re•ly
(ri lī′),USA pronunciation v.i., -lied, -ly•ing.
- to depend confidently;
put trust in (usually fol. by on or upon):You can rely on her work.
- Latin religāre to bind fast, hold firmly. See re-, ligament
- Middle French relier
- Middle English relien 1300–50
- trust, count, bank.
Collins Concise English Dictionary © HarperCollins Publishers::
rely /rɪˈlaɪ/ vb ( -lies, -lying, -lied) (intr; followed by on or upon)
'rely upon' also found in these entries (note: many are not synonyms or translations):