■ verb
1》 cause or enable (a condition or situation) to continue.
↘keep at the same level or rate.
2》 keep (a building, machine, etc.) in good condition by checking or repairing it regularly.
3》 provide with necessities for life or existence.
↘ archaic give one's support to; uphold.
4》 assert something to be the case.
Derivatives
~ability noun
~able adjective
~er noun
Origin
ME: from OFr. maintenir , from L. manu tenere 'hold in the hand'.