rhizoverbBeta
DictionarysubsistBasic survival
verb

subsist

sub-SIST/səbˈsɪst/

To maintain continued existence.

Many families subsist on small incomes from seasonal farm work.

Woman eats modest bowl of rice and beans beside jug of water and small bread portion, only basic necessities on tiny plain table; sober survival rather than abundance.
Etymology
subLatinunder, up to
+sistLatinto stand still, remain

With sistere meaning to stand still or remain, the compound expressed standing firm or holding out. English moved from continuing to exist to supporting oneself—the basis of surviving on basic necessities.

In context

Libertarianism.org12:56
For, without the help of Sir Richard, we that live in the [00:13:00] Islands could not subsist; for he is the best branch of our trade,
Liberty Chronicles, Ep. 24; Court & County in the First British Empire

More examples

  • We subsisted on rice and beans until payday.
  • These desert plants subsist on very little water.
  • Mutual trust cannot subsist without honest communication.

Forms

subsist · subsists · subsisted · subsisting

subsistence noun — Survival with only life's basic necessities.

Similar words

survive
Emphasizes staying alive or getting through danger or hardship.
persist
Emphasizes continuing over time, often despite efforts to stop it.