Maintain
/meɪnˈteɪn/
Definitions
3 meaningsTo cause something to continue; to keep in existence or preserve.
/meɪnˈteɪn/
To keep in existence or continue
The engineers worked hard to maintain the bridge.
💡 Simply: Imagine you have a plant. 'Maintain' means keeping it alive by watering it and giving it sunlight, so it keeps growing!
👶 For kids: To keep something going or working, like taking care of a toy so it doesn't break.
More Examples
Despite the challenges, she managed to maintain her composure.
The organization struggles to maintain its funding.
How It's Used
"The company struggled to maintain its market share during the economic downturn."
"The government aims to maintain good relations with its neighboring countries."
To keep (something) in good condition or working order; preserve from failure or decline.
/meɪnˈteɪn/
To keep in good condition
They employ a team to maintain the building's structure.
💡 Simply: Like keeping your bike in good condition by pumping the tires and oiling the chain. That's maintaining it!
👶 For kids: To take care of something so it stays good, like making sure your bike is clean and works well.
More Examples
It's important to maintain a healthy diet.
The company failed to maintain its equipment properly, leading to several breakdowns.
How It's Used
"Regular maintenance is required to maintain the machinery."
"It is important to maintain your car by getting the oil changed regularly."
To state or assert; to declare something to be true, often in the face of opposition.
/meɪnˈteɪn/
To state something firmly
The witness maintained his story throughout the interrogation.
💡 Simply: If you're really sure of something, you 'maintain' that belief, even if other people disagree.
👶 For kids: To say something is true and believe it, even if other people don't agree.
More Examples
She maintained a neutral stance during the debate.
Despite the evidence, he continued to maintain his innocence.
How It's Used
"The lawyer maintained that his client was innocent."
"She maintained her position despite the criticism."
Idioms & expressions
maintain order
To ensure that a situation is calm and controlled.
"The police were called to maintain order during the protest."
maintain a balance
To keep things in an even state, not tilting too far in one direction.
"It's important to maintain a balance between work and personal life."
From Middle English *mainteinen*, from Old French *maintenir* (“to hold, keep, maintain”), from *main* (“hand”) + *tenir* (“to hold”).
Historically, 'maintain' has been used since the 13th century, evolving from its meaning of holding or keeping to include preservation and assertion.
Memory tip
Think of 'main'taining something as keeping the 'main' thing alive and well.
Word Origin
"to hold, keep, or sustain"