/ meɪnˈteɪn; NAmE / verb
1.
[ vn ] to make sth continue at the same level, standard, etc.
SYN preserve :
to maintain law and order / standards / a balance
The two countries have always maintained close relations.
( formal )
She maintained a dignified silence.
to maintain prices (= prevent them falling or rising)
2.
[ vn ] to keep a building, a machine, etc. in good condition by checking or repairing it regularly :
The house is large and difficult to maintain.
3.
to keep stating that sth is true, even though other people do not agree or do not believe it
SYN insist :
[ v ( that )]
The men maintained (that) they were out of the country when the crime was committed.
[ vn ]
She has always maintained her innocence .
[also v speech ]
4.
[ vn ] to support sb/sth over a long period of time by giving money, paying for food, etc.
SYN keep :
Her income was barely enough to maintain one child, let alone three.
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WORD ORIGIN
Middle English (also in the sense practise an action habitually ): from Old French maintenir , from Latin manu tenere hold in the hand.