Subsistent, an adjective, describes something necessary for survival, particularly referring to the provision of basic needs like food, shelter, and water. It can also describe something that exists or is capable of existing independently, without the need for external support or resources. In a broader sense, subsistent can highlight a lack of abundance or luxury, focusing solely on meeting essential requirements for continued existence, often in challenging or resource-scarce environments. This implies a state of barely maintaining life, a bare minimum for survival.
Subsistent meaning with examples
- The family lived a subsistent lifestyle, growing their own food and relying on bartering for other essential goods. Their efforts were solely focused on providing for themselves from the land they lived on. Every day was a struggle for them to live.
- Due to the drought, the community's subsistent agriculture was threatened, leaving many families facing starvation. The community had to come together to survive. They helped each other through the hard times.
- Archaeologists discovered evidence of a subsistent economy in the ancient settlement, indicating they relied primarily on hunting and gathering. They looked to the land for what they needed. Little was left over.
- The artist's work reflected the subsistent nature of his early life, depicting the raw struggles of humanity in a harsh landscape. It made you think of the struggles people go through. Life can be hard.
- In the wake of the disaster, aid organizations worked tirelessly to provide subsistent aid packages, ensuring basic human needs were met for those affected by the event. The focus was making sure the victims survived. They gave the people what they needed.