as in food
something that maintains or stimulates the intellect my only sustenance on the long flight was a trashy novel I'd bought in the airport

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of sustenance For sustenance, there was One Potato Two, The Great Fry Company, Egg Roll and Etc. — and then, a McDonald’s followed closely by a Taco Bell. David Petitti, Chicago Tribune, 14 Apr. 2025 Only then does the fungus finish the job, killing the ant and consuming it from the inside for sustenance as the parasite grows. New Atlas, 12 Apr. 2025 Child labor and street crime were rampant, with some youngsters turning to theft for sustenance. Peter Zablocki, Smithsonian Magazine, 13 Mar. 2025 His insatiable appetite for worlds comes out of an elemental necessity to ingest fertile planets for sustenance and to maintain balance in the cosmos, forever on the prowl in his world ship, the Taa II. Jeff Spry, Space.com, 12 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for sustenance
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sustenance
Noun
  • The analysis considered the costs of six months of housing, utilities, food, medical care and car payments for a household of at least two people.
    Daniel de Visé, USA Today, 19 May 2025
  • Flossing is the only way to remove food particles lodged between teeth, which can lead to plaque and tartar buildup and cavities.2 Fluoride Toothpaste Fluoride is a mineral that strengthens teeth and prevents cavities by adding mineral content to the enamel.
    Mark Gurarie, Health, 19 May 2025
Noun
  • Instead, lean into nourishment—hydrating mists, lightweight moisturizers, and mineral sunscreens are all safe bets.
    Sarah Kinonen, Allure, 16 May 2025
  • Meals here are less about restaurants, and more about intention, nourishment and family.
    Drew Ramsey, CNBC, 14 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Sustenance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sustenance. Accessed 22 May. 2025.

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