sustainable

adjective

sus·​tain·​able sə-ˈstā-nə-bəl 

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

sə-ˌstā-nə-ˈbi-lə-tē 

noun

sustainably

sə-ˈstā-nə-blē 

adverb

Synonyms

• defendable
• defensible
• justifiable
• maintainable
• supportable
• tenable

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

The hope is the improvements will make the course sustainable long into the future. —Chris Biderman, Sacramento Bee, 9 June 2024

The sustainable wood and non-toxic organic cotton and polyester mat help support physical development. —Ashley Ziegler, Parents, 8 June 2024

As the first hotel in the state to offer sustainable public sunscreen dispensers, the initiative not only benefits skin health but also supports and protects coral reefs and ocean conservation. —Jessica Chapel, Condé Nast Traveler, 8 June 2024

Newsletter 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. —Tony Briscoe, Los Angeles Times, 7 June 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1924, in the meaning defined at sense 1