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).
Phrases and idioms:
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.