Sustain
To support, maintain, or endure over time; to provide nourishment or the ability to continue; to undergo or suffer damage.
verbSustain
To support, maintain, or endure over time; to provide nourishment or the ability to continue; to undergo or suffer damage.
verbImagine This
Imagine a community garden that relies on volunteers and a steady water supply. Each week, people repair leaks and refill tanks so the plants stay healthy all season—this ongoing care keeps the garden sustained.
Sounds Like
suh-STAYN
Looks Like
sustain (looks like the word itself); related forms include sustainment, sustenance
Remember This
Sustain is connected to sustenance and sustainability. It is often used with keeping up, continuing, or enduring, and with phrases like sustain damage or sustain an effort.
Other Forms
Note
Sustain is a transitive verb (you sustain something). Use it to convey ongoing support or endurance, not a one-time action. It can also describe supporting or nourishing someone or something over time.