1. to keep something going or continuing over time
2. to provide what is needed for something or someone to exist or continue
3. to experience or suffer something unpleasant

Examples

• The company needs new funding to sustain its operations.
• Plants need water and sunlight to sustain life.
• The athlete sustained a serious injury during the game.
• The old bridge can no longer sustain heavy traffic.
• She worked hard to sustain her family’s traditions.
• The economy cannot sustain this level of growth indefinitely.
• The roof beams sustain the weight of the snow.