1. to continue to exist or survive, especially with minimal resources
Usage: past tense of subsist
2. to maintain oneself by obtaining the basic necessities of life
Usage: past tense of subsist

Examples

• The family subsisted on rice and beans during the difficult winter.
• He subsisted entirely on his savings after losing his job.
• The ancient civilization subsisted for over a thousand years.
• She subsisted on very little sleep during exam week.
• The small village subsisted through farming and fishing.
• They subsisted in the wilderness for three weeks before being rescued.