Meaning & Definition of Sustain in English

Detailed Definitions

• Definition: To bear the weight of; support.

  Example Sentence: The beams sustain the roof of the house.

• Definition: To keep in existence; maintain.

  Example Sentence: He sustained his family through hard work.

• Definition: To undergo or endure (an injury, loss, etc.).

  Example Sentence: The athlete sustained an injury during the game.

• Definition: To supply with sustenance; provide for.

  Example Sentence: They farm to sustain themselves.

• Definition: To affirm or support a legal decision.

  Example Sentence: The court will sustain the lower court's ruling.

Etymology

Origin: From Old French 'sustenir', from Latin 'sustinere' - 'sub-' (up from) + 'tenere' (to hold).

Synonyms

Common Phrases and Expressions

• sustain a conversation: To keep a conversation going.
• sustain an injury: To suffer or experience an injury.
• sustain growth: To maintain a consistent rate of growth.

Translations

• Spanish: sostener

• French: soutenir

• German: tragen

• Russian: поддерживать

Related Words

• sustenance: Food and drink regarded as a source of strength.

• sustainable: Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level.

• sustained: Continued for an extended period or without interruption.

Slang Meanings of sustain

• Meaning: To keep it going.

  Example Sentence: I’ve been sustaining my creative energy with coffee.

• Meaning: To hold on during tough times.

  Example Sentence: She’s sustained through all the drama at work.