Sustained - English Definition & Meaning

Definition

When something is 'sustained,' it means it's maintained or continued over a period of time. It implies a level of endurance or support, like keeping a note going in music 🎵 or holding onto a difficult position in a game. Think of it as the opposite of something fleeting or temporary. A sustained effort means you're putting in continuous work. Unlike a burst of energy, 'sustained' indicates consistency and perseverance 🏃‍♀️. Imagine a marathon runner maintaining their pace throughout the race.

Etymology

The word 'sustained' comes from the Latin word 'sustinere,' meaning 'to hold up' or 'to support.' 'Sus' means 'up,' and 'tenere' means 'to hold.' It evolved through Old French to enter English. Related words include 'sustain,' 'sustenance,' and 'tenant,' all sharing the core idea of holding or maintaining something.

Related Words

Examples

• "The athlete sustained an injury during the game."
• "The company sustained heavy losses during the economic downturn."
• "The climber sustained himself with energy bars during the long ascent."
• "The politician sustained his argument with factual evidence."

Encouragement

Knowing the meaning of 'sustained' helps you understand the importance of persistence and long-term effort. Use it to describe ongoing actions and consistent support. 💪 Keep up the sustained effort in your studies!

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