sustain

Definition of sustain

Pronunciation

• IPA: /səˈsteɪn/, SAMPA: /s@"steIn/
• Audio (US) ^[?]
• Rhymes: -eɪn

Etymology

From Old French sustenir (French: soutenir), from Latin sustineo < sub- + teneo.

Verb

sustain (third-person singular simple present sustains, present participle sustaining, simple past and past participle sustained)

1. (transitive) To maintain (something), or keep it in existence.
2. (transitive) To provide for or nourish (something).
3. (transitive) To encourage (something).
4. (transitive) To experience or suffer (an injury, etc.).
5. (transitive) To confirm, prove, or corroborate (something).