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definitions

subsistent

[suh b-sis-tuh nt]

adjective

subsisting, existing, or continuing in existence.
inherent: subsistent qualities of character.

noun

Philosophy. something that exists necessarily as opposed to contingent existence in space and time.

Origin of subsistent

1520–30; < Latin subsistent- (stem of subsistēns), present participle of subsistere to remain; see subsist, -ent
Related formsnon·sub·sist·ent, adjectivepre·sub·sist·ent, adjectiveself-sub·sist·ent, adjective
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019
Word Origin and History for subsistent
adj.

1520s, from Latin subsistentem (nominative subsistens), present participle of subsistere (see subsistence).

Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2010 Douglas Harper