* "Codependence" is a specific psychological term. It describes a pattern of behavior where someone's sense of self-worth is tied to the approval and behavior of another person, often someone with an addiction or other problem.
* "Dependence" is a broader term. It can describe a reliance on something or someone, but it doesn't necessarily imply the unhealthy dynamics associated with codependence. For example, you might be dependent on your doctor for medical care, but that's not codependent.
So, the word "codependence" is its own unique term, not simply a combination of other words. It's important to understand the specific characteristics of codependence to accurately identify and address it.