sustainable

adjective

sus·​tain·​able sə-ˈstā-nə-bəl How to pronounce sustainable (audio)
1
: capable of being sustained
2
a
: of, relating to, or being a method of harvesting or using a resource so that the resource is not depleted or permanently damaged
sustainable techniques
sustainable agriculture
b
: of or relating to a lifestyle involving the use of sustainable methods
sustainable society
sustainability noun
sustainably adverb

Examples of sustainable in a Sentence

a line of argument that is probably not sustainable in a public forum against skilled debaters has no sustainable claim to the property without a deed or some other document
Recent Examples on the Web While timber has its own environmental costs depending on how it’s grown, it is considered far more sustainable than concrete. Catherine Porter, New York Times, 16 Mar. 2024 Toward a more sustainable California Get Boiling Point, our newsletter exploring climate change, energy and the environment, and become part of the conversation — and the solution. Melody Petersen, Los Angeles Times, 16 Mar. 2024 This roomy wheeled duffel will see them through any adventure, thanks to the durable and sustainable construction, sturdy oversized wheels, and padded walls. Paula Lee, Glamour, 14 Mar. 2024 At a time when people are rejecting nonessential spending, Lego is banking on staying relevant with its diverse audience through innovative and sustainable initiatives. Prarthana Prakash, Fortune Europe, 12 Mar. 2024 Park works with deadstock and recycled fabrics, making Taylor-Joy’s look a sustainable one. Irene Kim, Vogue, 11 Mar. 2024 The agreement includes trade in goods and services, investment promotion and cooperation, intellectual property, government procurement, trade and sustainable development, and dispute settlement. Ashok Sharma, Fortune, 10 Mar. 2024 Removing a lawn eliminates the need for these chemical inputs, leading to a healthier and more sustainable landscape. Kobi Bardugo, San Diego Union-Tribune, 9 Mar. 2024 Among the recipients, Universal EV Chargers has successfully clinched an impressive eight site awards, showcasing its dedication to advancing sustainable transportation solutions. Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 5 Mar. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'sustainable.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1924, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of sustainable was in 1924

Dictionary Entries Near sustainable

Cite this Entry

“Sustainable.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sustainable. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

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