Britannica Dictionary definition of SUSTAIN
[+ object]
1
:
to provide what is needed for (something or someone) to exist, continue, etc.
There is not enough oxygen to sustain [=support] life at very high altitudes.
Hope sustained us during that difficult time.
The movie sustained our interest [=kept us interested] from beginning to end.
The country is enjoying a period of sustained [=continuing] economic growth.
a sustained discussion/effort
2
formal
:
to hold up the weight of (something)
The roof, unable to sustain the weight of all the snow, collapsed.
3
formal
:
to deal with or experience (something bad or unpleasant)
:
The army sustained heavy losses.
He sustained serious injuries in the accident.
4
law
:
to decide or state that (something) is proper, legal, or fair
The judge sustained the motion.
The lawyer's objection was sustained.
5
formal
:
to show that (something) is true or correct
:
to confirm or prove (something)
The report sustains their story/claims.
The evidence does not sustain a guilty verdict.