Sub·sist v. i. [imp. & p. p. Subsisted; p. pr. & vb. n. Subsisting.]
 1. To be; to have existence; to inhere.
 And makes what happiness we justly call,
 Subsist not in the good of one, but all.   --Pope.
 2. To continue; to retain a certain state.
    Firm we subsist, yet possible to swerve.   --Milton.
 3. To be maintained with food and clothing; to be supported; to live.
    To subsist on other men's charity.   --Atterbury.