Meaning & use
subsistence
Last updated
The state of maintaining or supporting oneself, especially at a minimal or basic level.
See it in a sentence
The farmers grew just enough crops for subsistence, with little left to sell.
Aid organizations distributed food to help refugees at the subsistence level.
A note on using this word
Frequently used in the phrase "subsistence farming," meaning growing just enough food to live on rather than to sell for profit.
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