- F. supporter, L. supportare to carry on, to convey, in LL., to support, sustain; sub under + portare to carry. See Port demeanor
- To bear by being under; to keep from falling; to uphold; to sustain, in a literal or physical sense; to prop up; to bear the weight of; as, a pillar supports a structure; an abutment supports an arch; the trunk of a tree supports the branches.
- To endure without being overcome, exhausted, or changed in character; to sustain; as, to support pain, distress, or misfortunes.This fierce demeanor and his insolence The patience of a god could not support.
- To keep from failing or sinking; to solace under affictive circumstances; to assist; to encourage; to defend; as, to support the courage or spirits.
- To assume and carry successfully, as the part of an actor; to represent or act; to sustain; as, to support the character of King Lear.
- To furnish with the means of sustenance or livelihood; to maintain; to provide for; as, to support a family; to support the ministers of the gospel.
- To carry on; to enable to continue; to maintain; as, to support a war or a contest; to support an argument or a debate.
- To verify; to make good; to substantiate; to establish; to sustain; as, the testimony is not sufficient to support the charges; the evidence will not support the statements or allegations.To urge such arguments, as though they were sufficient to support and demonstrate a whole scheme of moral philosophy.
- To vindicate; to maintain; to defend successfully; as, to be able to support one's own cause.
- To uphold by aid or countenance; to aid; to help; to back up; as, to support a friend or a party; to support the present administration.Wherefore, bold pleasant, Darest thou support a published traitor?
- A attend as an honorary assistant; as, a chairman supported by a vice chairman; O'Connell left the prison, supported by his two sons.To maintain; endure; verify; substantiate; countenance; patronize; help; back; second; succor; relieve; uphold; encourage; favor; nurture; nourish; cherish; shield; defend; protect; stay; assist; forward.
