sustains

noun

A mechanism which can be used to hold a note, as the right pedal on a piano.

1. To maintain, or keep in existence.

   The city came under sustained attack by enemy forces.

2. To provide for or nourish.

   provisions to sustain an army

3. To encourage or sanction (something).
4. To experience or suffer (an injury, etc.).

   The building sustained major damage in the earthquake.

5. To confirm, prove, or corroborate; to uphold.

   to sustain a charge, an accusation, or a proposition

6. To keep from falling; to bear; to uphold; to support.

   A foundation sustains the superstructure; an animal sustains a load; a rope sustains a weight.

7. To aid, comfort, or relieve; to vindicate.