Education

Word of the Day: Sustenance

Type: Noun

Pronunciation: suh-STEH-nuhns

Definition: Something that provides support, nourishment, or livelihood necessary for survival.

Etymology: From the Middle English "sustenaunce," derived from the Old French "soustenance" and ultimately from the Latin "sustinententia," meaning "patience" or "endurance."

Meaning and Usage: Sustenance most commonly refers to food and drink that keeps living things alive and healthy. It can also refer to anything that provides the means of living, such as a job or financial support.

Synonyms: nourishment, food, provisions, rations, livelihood, subsistence, support
Antonyms: starvation, depletion, deprivation

Example Sentences:

The lost hikers were desperately searching for sustenance.
The small farm provided enough sustenance for the family.
Her faith was a source of great sustenance during her difficult time.

How to Use in Conversation:

You can use "sustenance" to talk about food, but it also adds a more formal or descriptive touch. Here are some conversation examples:

"We need to find some sustenance before we continue our journey." (Formal)
"My garden provides most of our sustenance during the summer months." (Descriptive)
"Are you sure you have enough sustenance for the camping trip?" (Formal alternative to "food")

Interesting Facts or Trivia:

The word "sustenance" can also refer to the act or process of sustaining something.
In some contexts, it can describe anything that provides emotional or spiritual support.

Quote of the Day:

"Knowledge is not a cup to be filled but a fire to be kindled." - Plutarch (This quote emphasizes the idea that knowledge, like sustenance, is something that needs to be continually sought after and used to keep our minds active.)

Incorporating Sustenance into Your Vocabulary:

Using "sustenance" can elevate your writing and make your speech more precise. Try using it instead of "food" when you want to sound more formal or descriptive.

Share and Connect:

Discuss the word "sustenance" with friends and family. Ask them to share examples of how they've used the word or encountered it in their reading.

Conclusion:

Sustenance is a versatile word that encompasses the things we need to survive and thrive. Learning its various applications can add depth and richness to your communication.