Definition

• v. t. - 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.
• v. t. - To endure without being overcome, exhausted, or changed in character; to sustain; as, to support pain, distress, or misfortunes.
• v. t. - To keep from failing or sinking; to solace under affictive circumstances; to assist; to encourage; to defend; as, to support the courage or spirits.
• v. t. - 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.
• v. t. - 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.
• v. t. - To carry on; to enable to continue; to maintain; as, to support a war or a contest; to support an argument or a debate.