vt 1  :  to hold up or serve as a foundation or prop for  2  :  to maintain in condition, action, or existence < respiration>  < life> 
n 1  :  the act or process of supporting  :  the condition of being supported <respiratory >   2  :  SUPPORTER .
 
   
 
Similar sounding terms:  sep·a·rate  spir·it  sport   sprout 
 
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