v.tr. 1 cause to continue; keep up, preserve (a state of affairs, an activity, etc.) (maintained friendly relations). 2 (often foll. by in; often refl.) support (life, a condition, etc.) by work, nourishment, expenditure, etc. (maintained him in comfort; maintained themselves by fishing). 3 (often foll. by that + clause) assert (an opinion, statement, etc.) as true (maintained that she was the best; his story was true, he maintained). 4 preserve or provide for the preservation of (a building, machine, road, etc.) in good repair. 5 give aid to (a cause, party, etc.). 6 provide means for (a garrison etc. to be equipped). maintained school Brit. a school supported from public funds. maintainable adj. maintainability n.
[ ME f. OF maintenir ult. f. L manu tenere hold in the hand ]