Sustenance Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿฒ
Add to dictionary

sustenance

[หˆsสŒst(ษ™)nษ™ns ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

daily life

Food and drink regarded as a source of strength; nourishment.

Synonyms

food, nourishment, nutrition.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
sustenance

Use 'sustenance' when referring to something that provides nourishment and supports life, often in a more formal or literary context.

  • The villagers relied on the nearby forest for sustenance.
  • Her love and encouragement became the emotional sustenance he needed.
nourishment

Use 'nourishment' to emphasize the health-giving properties of food or when discussing diet and nutrition in a more technical or serious tone.

  • The soup provided much-needed nourishment after the long hike.
  • Proper nourishment is essential for a child's development.
food

Use 'food' in general everyday conversations to refer to anything that people or animals eat.

  • Let's grab some food before the movie starts.
  • He bought a lot of food for the party.
nutrition

Use 'nutrition' in scientific or health-related contexts to discuss the process of providing or obtaining the food necessary for health and growth.

  • Good nutrition is important for overall health.
  • The school offers lessons on nutrition and healthy eating habits.

Examples of usage

  • He needed sustenance after a long day of work.
  • She found sustenance in the simple joys of life.
Context #2 | Noun

survival

The maintaining of someone or something in life or existence.

Synonyms

livelihood, maintenance, support.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
sustenance

Identical word, see first entry.

support

Can mean providing assistance, encouragement, or a means of sustaining someone financially, emotionally, or physically. The term is versatile and is used in various contexts.

  • She received a lot of emotional support from her friends during the tough times.
  • Financial support from his parents allowed him to complete his studies.
livelihood

Describes a means of making a living or earning money to support basic needs. It is commonly used when talking about jobs and work.

  • Fishing is the main source of livelihood for many families in this village.
  • The new regulations may disrupt the livelihoods of many small business owners.
maintenance

Often refers to the process of keeping something in good condition or the act of looking after someoneโ€™s needs. It is frequently used in contexts related to property, equipment, or relationships.

  • Regular maintenance of the car is necessary to keep it running smoothly.
  • The maintenance of healthy relationships requires effort and communication.

Examples of usage

  • The tribe relied on hunting for sustenance.
  • The charity provided sustenance for the homeless.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Nutrition

  • Balanced sustenance typically includes carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals necessary for health.
  • In many cultures, the importance of sustenance is often reflected in local dietary staples, shaping the foods people eat.
  • Food deserts, areas with limited access to nutritious food, show how access to sustenance can affect a community's health.

Cultural Significance

  • Many traditions and rituals around the world celebrate sustenance, such as harvest festivals that give thanks for food.
  • In some cultures, sharing meals is seen as a way to connect with family and friends, highlighting the social aspect of sustenance.

Psychology

  • Research shows that good nutrition can greatly impact mental health, influencing mood and cognitive functions.
  • Comfort food often plays a vital role in emotional well-being, linking sustenance to feelings of safety and happiness.

Modern Issues

  • Food sustainability is an increasingly important topic as people analyze farming methods and their impact on the environment.
  • Global food security initiatives aim to ensure that everyone has access to enough healthy sustenance.

Origin of 'sustenance'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Latin 'sustentare', which means 'to support' or 'to maintain'.
  • It has roots in the word 'sustain', which is all about keeping something going over time.

The word 'sustenance' originated from the Latin word 'sustentare' which means 'to sustain'. It was first used in the 14th century in English literature. The concept of sustenance has always been crucial for human survival, with ancient civilizations emphasizing the importance of food and nourishment for health and well-being.


See also: sustain, sustainability, sustainable, sustainably, sustained, sustaining, sustainment, unsustainability, unsustainable.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,130, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.