subsist

 
Pronunciation: /səbˈsɪst/

verb

[no object]
  • 1maintain or support oneself, especially at a minimal level: he subsisted on welfare and casual labour
  • [with object] archaic provide sustenance for: the problem of subsisting the poor in a period of high bread prices
  • 2chiefly Law remain in force or effect: the court may treat a contract as still subsisting the peace subsisted between 1303 and 1324
  • (subsist in) be attributable to: the effect of genetic maldevelopment may subsist in chromosomal mutation

Derivatives

subsistent

adjective

Origin:

mid 16th century (in the sense 'continue to exist'): from Latin subsistere 'stand firm', from sub- 'from below' + sistere 'set, stand'