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Definition of subsist

subsist

/səbˈsɪst/
sub · sist
Adjective:subsistent
•
Past Simple:subsisted
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Past Participle:subsisted
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Present Participle:subsisting
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subsist Lexical Profile

subsist Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To maintain or support oneself at a minimal level, especially with regard to food, money, or basic necessities (usually followed by 'on' or 'by').

Example

"During the harsh winter months, the early settlers had to subsist on dried meat and root vegetables."

2

To remain in force, being, or effect; to continue to exist (especially of a legal right, contract, or philosophical state).

Example

"Under the terms of the agreement, the copyright will continue to subsist for seventy years after the author's death."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for subsist

• Nearby Words

subsidize
subsidizer
subsidy
subsist
subsistence
subskill
subsoil

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the mid-16th century from Middle French subsister, from Latin subsistere, meaning 'to stand still, halt, or remain alive,' formed from sub- ('under') and sistere ('to stand firm').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Subsist. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/subsist
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