sustain
verb (used with object)
to support, hold, or bear up from below; bear the weight of, as a structure.
has sustained
-
present perfectof sustain (3rd person singular).present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Such a system would be more complex, more expensive to administer and could ultimately undermine the broad public support that has sustained Social Security for nearly a century.
From MarketWatch ● Aug. 3, 2026
"We remain deeply grateful for the support, prayers, and kindness we have received. This outpouring has sustained us during the darkest days of our lives."
From Barron's ● Jul. 6, 2026
James has sustained a number of injuries in his career and has faced questions about his ability to play regularly with limited recovery time.
From BBC ● Jun. 21, 2026
The move, however, is widely seen as symbolic as the war in the Middle East continues to disrupt flows through Hormuz, while Russia’s energy infrastructure has sustained significant damage.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 8, 2026
This, for me, began a habit that has sustained me for life, keeping a close and high-spirited council of girlfriends—a safe harbor of female wisdom.
From "Becoming" by Michelle Obama
