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

While interest in sustainable landscaping has grown substantially, choices often were limited in Overland Park because the 2011 ordinance listed some plant species as weeds. —Debra Skodack, Kansas City Star, 10 Apr. 2024

Menu offerings at Andiamo Pasta & Chops include its handmade pasta classics and Italian favorites, paired with offerings of premium steaks, free-range chicken, and sustainable seafood. —Detroit Free Press, 10 Apr. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1924, in the meaning defined at sense 1