Wordnet 3.0
ADJECTIVE (1)
1.
performing an essential function in the living body;
- Example: "vital organs"- Example: "blood and other vital fluids"- Example: "the loss of vital heat in shock"- Example: "a vital spot"- Example: "life-giving love and praise"[syn: vital, life-sustaining]
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:
life-sustaining \life-sustaining\ adj.
being the seat or source of life; performing a necessary
function in the living body; as, the need for life-sustaining
air and water.
Syn: vital.
[WordNet 1.5 +PJC]
WordNet (r) 3.0 (2006):
life-sustaining
adj 1: performing an essential function in the living body;
"vital organs"; "blood and other vital fluids"; "the loss
of vital heat in shock"; "a vital spot"; "life-giving
love and praise" [syn: vital, life-sustaining]