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

• justifiable

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

This year, the festival’s host and beneficiary is Event Zero Foundation, which promotes sustainable event practices. —Erin Clements, PEOPLE, 18 Oct. 2025

As nations and companies race to commercialize orbit and explore the moon and beyond, the ceremony serves as both a celebration and a catalyst, showcasing how space technologies and partnerships can shape a more connected and sustainable future on Earth. —Samantha Mathewson, Space.com, 18 Oct. 2025

The cheapest supplier may no longer be the safest, most economically sustainable choice, and increasingly complex and less transparent corporate structures may obscure the particular risk profile of third parties. —Emma Burleigh, Fortune, 18 Oct. 2025

The Rooms All of the hotel’s 89 rooms have balconies, desks, king-size beds (or the option for two twins), and toiletries from Costa Brazil, the sustainable beauty brand from Brazilian fashion designer Francisco Costa. —Hannah Walhout, Travel + Leisure, 18 Oct. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1924, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for sustainable

• trainable
• ascertainable
• unattainable
• unexplainable
• unobtainable
• unsustainable
• attainable
• explainable
• maintainable
• obtainable