to cause or allow something to continue for a period of time: The economy looks set to sustain its growth into next year. He seems to find it difficult to sustain relationships with women. US The judge sustained (= accepted) the lawyer's objection. C2 to keep alive:

sustain something to make something continue for some time without becoming less synonym maintain a period of sustained economic growth a sustained attack She managed to sustain everyone's interest until the end of her speech.

sustain verb [T] (CONTINUE) Add to word list to cause or allow something to continue for a period of time: The team may not be able to sustain this level of performance.

sustain verb [T] (SUPPORT) to support someone or something so that they can live or exist: The money he received was hardly enough to sustain a wife and five children. sustain damage/injuries/losses formal to be injured / damaged, etc.: She later died in hospital of the injuries sustained in the accident.