Skip to definition.
Get the FREE one-click dictionary software for Windows or the iPhone/iPad and Android apps


Verb: sustain  su'steyn
  1. Lengthen or extend in duration or space
    "We sustained the diplomatic negotiations as long as possible";
    - prolong, keep up
     
  2. Undergo (as of injuries and illnesses)
    "She sustained a fracture in the accident";
    - suffer, have, get
     
  3. Provide with nourishment
    "We sustained ourselves on bread and water";
    - nourish, nurture
     
  4. Supply with necessities and support
    "She alone sustained her family"; "The money will sustain our good cause";
    - keep, maintain
     
  5. Be the physical support of; carry the weight of
    - hold, support, hold up
     
  6. Admit as valid
    "The court sustained the motion"
     
  7. Establish or strengthen as with new evidence or facts
    "his story sustained my doubts";
    - confirm, corroborate, substantiate, support, affirm

Derived forms: sustained, sustains, sustaining

See also: maintain

Type of: acknowledge, admit, bear on, carry on, cater, continue, experience, get, have, have got, hold, ply, preserve, provide, receive, supply, uphold

Encyclopedia: Sustain