1
: able to be used without being completely used up or destroyed
sustainable energy resources
a sustainable water supply
2
: involving methods that do not completely use up or destroy natural resources
sustainable agriculture/farming/techniques
3
: able to last or continue for a long time
sustainable development/growth
Cite this Entry
“Sustainable.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/sustainable. Accessed 7 Jun. 2026.
Copy Citation
