SUBSISTENCE

n. 1 the state or an instance of subsisting. 2 a the means of supporting life; a livelihood. b a minimal level of existence or the income providing this (a bare subsistence). subsistence allowance (or money) esp. Brit. an allowance or advance on pay granted esp. as travelling expenses. subsistence farming farming which directly supports the farmer's household without producing a significant surplus for trade. subsistence level (or wage) a standard of living (or wage) providing only the bare necessities of life.