səbˈsɪstəns n. 1
the state or an
instance of subsisting. 2 a the
means of supporting
life; a
livelihood. b a
minimal level of
existence or the
income providing this (a
bare subsistence). øsubsistence
allowance (or money)
esp.
Brit. an allowance or
advance on pay granted esp. as travelling expenses. subsistence farming farming
which directly supports the farmer's
household without producing a
significant surplus for trade. subsistence level (or wage) a
standard of
living (or wage) providing
only the bare necessities of life.