subsistence

noun

sub·​sis·​tence səb-ˈsi-stən(t)s 

1

a(1)

: real being : existence

(2)

: the condition of remaining in existence : continuation, persistence

b

: an essential characteristic quality of something that exists

c

: the character possessed by whatever is logically conceivable

2

: means of subsisting: such as

a

: the minimum (as of food and shelter) necessary to support life

b

: a source or means of obtaining the necessities of life

subsistent

səb-ˈsi-stənt 

adjective

Synonyms

• actuality
• corporality
• corporeality
• existence
• reality
• thingness

Examples of subsistence in a Sentence

They depended on hunting and fishing for subsistence.

Farming is their means of subsistence.

Recent Examples on the Web

Beyond its cultural and community importance, subsistence is crucial for Alaska Natives because of the high cost of groceries. —Paige Vega, Vox, 3 July 2024

The reasons for the decline remain a subject of intense debate between industry executives, conservation experts and subsistence communities. —Lucas E. Wright, USA TODAY, 30 Apr. 2024

His work, which often centers on freshwater issues, climate change and subsistence, has appeared in Circle of Blue, Sierra magazine, Discover magazine and Alaska Sporting Journal. —Christian Thorsberg, Smithsonian Magazine, 26 June 2024

Her parents and grandparents ran the shop in a village of subsistence laborers who made a living gathering charcoal and cork. —Lydia Bell, Condé Nast Traveler, 29 May 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Late Latin subsistentia, from subsistent-, subsistens, present participle of subsistere

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a(1)

Phrases Containing subsistence

• subsistence farming
• subsistence level

Kids Definition

subsistence

noun

sub·​sis·​tence səb-ˈsis-tən(t)s 

1

a

: real being : existence

b

: the condition of remaining in existence : continuation, persistence

2

a

: means of subsisting

b

: the minimum (as of food and shelter) necessary to support life

subsistent

-tənt 

adjective