sustain
sustain Lexical Profile
sustain Game Scores & Validity
• verb
To cause something to continue for an extended period or without interruption.
"It takes consistent effort and communication to sustain a healthy partnership over many years."
To strengthen or support physically, mentally, or emotionally, especially by providing nourishment or necessities.
"A balanced diet of whole grains and fresh vegetables helped sustain the hikers during their week-long expedition."
To undergo, experience, or suffer something unpleasant, especially an injury, loss, or damage.
"The historic coastal lighthouse managed to survive the hurricane without sustaining any major structural damage."
To uphold, affirm, or validate the justice or validity of a claim, objection, or legal decision.
"The presiding judge decided to sustain the defense attorney's objection regarding the unverified testimony."
To bear the weight of an object without giving way or collapsing.
"Engineers tested the reinforced concrete pillars to ensure they could sustain the heavy load of the upper floors."
• noun
An audio or musical effect that prolongs the duration of a musical note or sound after it has been played.
"The guitarist adjusted the amplifier settings to achieve a longer, richer sustain on the final chord."
• Rhymes for sustain
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed from Old French soustenir, from Latin sustinere ('to hold up, support, or endure'), formed from the assimilated prefix sub- ('up from below') and tenere ('to hold').