sustain

Meanings

1. 1
   verb

   To keep something going or in existence over time.

   The professor had trouble sustaining the students' interest until the end of the lecture.

2. 2
   verb

   To suffer or experience something bad, such as an injury or damage.

   The building sustained major damage in the earthquake.

3. 3
   verb

   To provide someone with the food and support they need to stay alive.

   They sustained themselves on bread and water for a week.

From Middle English susteinen, sustenen, from Old French sustenir (French soutenir), from Latin sustineō, sustinēre (“to uphold”), from sub- (“from below, up”) + teneō (“hold”, verb).

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