sustainable

adjective

sus·​tain·​able sə-ˈstā-nə-bəl 

1

: capable of being sustained

2

a

: of, relating to, or being a method of harvesting or using a resource so that the resource is not depleted or permanently damaged

sustainable techniques

sustainable agriculture

b

: of or relating to a lifestyle involving the use of sustainable methods

sustainable society

sustainability

sə-ˌstā-nə-ˈbi-lə-tē 

noun

sustainably

sə-ˈstā-nə-blē 

adverb

Synonyms

• defendable
• defensible
• justifiable
• maintainable
• supportable
• tenable

Examples of sustainable in a Sentence

a line of argument that is probably not sustainable in a public forum against skilled debaters

has no sustainable claim to the property without a deed or some other document

Recent Examples on the Web

Over by Union Market, James Beard winner Edward Lee experiments with sustainable fine dining at the 22-seat tasting room Shia (reservations required). —Anna Spiegel, Axios, 11 Dec. 2024

Unless interest rates take a sustainable path lower, Bouley said the rise in new and existing home inventory will put downward pressure on home prices. —Pia Singh, CNBC, 11 Dec. 2024

The jackets transition between day and night and are designed with high-quality, sustainable materials that reflect both brands’ dedication to craftsmanship and responsible production. —Lisa Lockwood, WWD, 10 Dec. 2024

Many appreciate that the toys are made with sustainable materials, and Lalo offers a donation program to reduce waste. —Dorian Smith-Garcia, Parents, 10 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1924, in the meaning defined at sense 1