Sustain
WordNet
verb
(1) Undergo (as of injuries and illnesses)
"She suffered a fracture in the accident"
"He had an insulin shock after eating three candy bars"
"She got a bruise on her leg"
"He got his arm broken in the scuffle"
(2) Establish or strengthen as with new evidence or facts
"His story confirmed my doubts"
"The evidence supports the defendant"
(3) Admit as valid
"The court sustained the motion"
(4) Supply with necessities and support
"She alone sustained her family"
"The money will sustain our good cause"
"There's little to earn and many to keep"
(5) Provide with nourishment
"We sustained ourselves on bread and water"
"This kind of food is not nourishing for young children"
(6) Be the physical support of; carry the weight of
"The beam holds up the roof"
"He supported me with one hand while I balanced on the beam"
"What's holding that mirror?"
(7) Lengthen or extend in duration or space
"We sustained the diplomatic negotiations as long as possible"
"Prolong the treatment of the patient"
"Keep up the good work"
WiktionaryText
Etymology
From sustenir (French: soutenir), from sustenire.
Noun
Verb
- To maintain (something), or keep it in existence.
- To provide for or nourish (something).
- To encourage (something).
- To experience or suffer (an injury, etc.).
- To confirm, prove, or corroborate (something).