Definition of 'sustain'
Verb
- 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"
Synonyms: prolong keep up - 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"
Synonyms: suffer have get - provide with nourishment; "We sustained ourselves on bread and water"; "This kind of food is not nourishing for young children"
Synonyms: nourish nurture - 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"
Synonyms: keep maintain - 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?"
Synonyms: hold support hold up - admit as valid; "The court sustained the motion"
- establish or strengthen as with new evidence or facts; "his story confirmed my doubts"; "The evidence supports the defendant"
Synonyms: confirm corroborate substantiate support affirm
Antonyms: negate contradict
