eke out

verb

1. to make (a supply) last, esp by frugal use

   they eked out what little food was left

2. to support (existence) with difficulty and effort
3. to add to (something insufficient), esp with effort

   to eke out an income with evening work

Example Sentences

Early Wednesday, the Associated Press reported that Rep. Mike Lawler, who holds a suburban New York seat, managed to eke out a second term.

From Los Angeles Times

In the quarter, that helped the firm eke out a 0.3% sales rise in the US in stores open at least a year.

From BBC

That should be enough for Harris to eke out a win — but it might not be.

From Salon

Having failed to close out that title decider when it mattered most, the Red Roses are unbeaten since - and showed steel to eke out the victory in Vancouver.

From BBC

If he manages to eke out an electoral victory, it will naturally be the greatest victory the world has ever seen.

From Salon

Related Words

• get by