subsistence

[ suhb-sis-tuhns ]

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.

subsistence

/ 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

Other Words From

• inter·sub·sistence noun
• nonsub·sistence noun
• presub·sistence noun
• self-sub·sistence noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of subsistence¹

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

Example Sentences

Prof Mendelson reckons such tools that can simplify the process of reporting, especially for subsistence farmers, are helpful.

From BBC

An estimated one million subsistence farmers experienced damaged crops and maize supplies in the country are still critically low.

From BBC

They are one of the last peoples on the planet to live a fully subsistence lifestyle of hunting, foraging and farming.

From BBC

Salmon haven't historically been seen in large numbers in the Arctic Ocean and its watersheds, but in recent years incidental catches by subsistence fishermen have occasionally surged.

From Science Daily

“Benacerraf’s grand style,” he wrote, “captures the drama of subsistence in the face of nature,” adding that “the overwhelming beauty of the wide-open spaces contrasts with the workers’ burdened trudges through them.”

From New York Times

Related Words

• livelihood
• ration
• sustenance