Definition of: sustentation

(sus′ten·tā′shən) noun
1. The act or process of sustaining; specifically, support of life; maintenance.
2. That which provides the means of support.
3. Upkeep or maintenance of an estate, building, etc.
4. Physical support.
5. Preservation on a certain level. [<OF sustentacion <L sustentatio, -onis <sustentatus, pp. of sustentare hold up <sustinere SUSTAIN]
—sus′ten·ta′tive adjective