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

As the name suggests, the menu focuses on local and sustainable raised meat and cheese, which changes with the seasons. —Elise Taylor, Vogue, 10 Jan. 2025

The timing makes sense: The initial burst of motivation wears off, and the hard work of forming sustainable habits sets in. —Jane Hanson, Forbes, 10 Jan. 2025

Member states are working on tackling the need for sustainable, dignified and affordable housing across the Union. —Sofia Celeste, WWD, 10 Jan. 2025

And because hydrogen fuel cells don’t create greenhouse gases or burn fuel, they’re noted as a more sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. —Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 10 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1924, in the meaning defined at sense 1