subsistence

American  

[suhb-sis-tuhns] / səbˈsɪs təns /

noun

1. the state or fact of subsisting.

2. the state or fact of existing.

3. the providing of sustenance or support.

   Synonyms:

   nourishment, maintenance, survival

4. means of supporting life; a living or livelihood.

5. the source from which food and other items necessary to exist are obtained.

6. Philosophy.

   1. existence, especially of an independent entity.

   2. the quality of having timeless or abstract existence.

   3. mode of existence or that by which a substance is individualized.

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subsistence British  

/ səbˈsɪstəns /

noun

1. the means by which one maintains life

2. the act or condition of subsisting

3. a thing that has real existence

4. the state of being inherent

5. philosophy an inferior mode of being ascribed to the references of general terms which do not in fact exist See also nonbeing

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Other Word Forms

• intersubsistence
  noun
• nonsubsistence
  noun
• presubsistence
  noun
• self-subsistence
  noun

Etymology

Origin of subsistence

1400–50; late Middle English < Late Latin subsistentia; see subsist, -ence

Explanation

Subsistence means the minimal resources that are necessary for survival. If you work for subsistence, you'll probably receive food, water, and lodging (internet access not included). Subsistence can be used in a variety of subtly different ways. In addition to referring to necessities for survival, it can indicate one's means of obtaining those necessities (usually a job). And if you feel like getting philosophical, subsistence can refer to the very act of existence itself.

Example Sentences

Subsistence hunting by aboriginal groups is allowed under special provisions.

From Seattle Times • Sep. 10, 2023

Subsistence agriculture in the Sahel is heavily dependent on seasonal rainfall, which can vary greatly in amount and timing from year to year.

From New York Times • Nov. 16, 2022

In 1798, English economist Thomas Robert Malthus anonymously published his infamous treatise "An Essay on the Principle of Population," arguing "Population, when unchecked, increases in a geometrical ratio, Subsistence, increases only in an arithmetical ratio."

From Salon • Nov. 15, 2022

Subsistence hunting, fishing and gathering have been more critical than ever.

From Washington Times • Jun. 2, 2020

Subsistence is a convenient facet of society with which to start, since it in turn affected other facets.

From "Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies" by Jared M. Diamond

Related Words

• livelihood
• ration
• sustenance