sustain
verb (used with object)
to support, hold, or bear up from below; bear the weight of, as a structure.
have sustained
-
present perfectof sustain.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.
To Jews: Draw strength from the traditions, values and history that have sustained generations.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 18, 2026
They “appeared to have sustained fire-related damage inside an Official Ballot Drop Box,” according to a news release from the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk’s Office.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 1, 2026
"His strength and love have sustained me through every challenge," she wrote in her resignation letter obtained by CBS News, the BBC's US partner.
From BBC ● May 22, 2026
The company has avoided some of the physical damage that its competitors have sustained in the war.
From Barron's ● Apr. 30, 2026
So it was that Ralph felt not only his future to have failed, but with it his past, the twin engine that might have sustained him.
From "Typical American" by Gish Jen
