Maintained
/meɪnˈteɪnd/
Definitions
3 meaningsTo keep something in good condition or working order; to preserve.
/meɪnˈteɪn/
To keep something in good condition or working order.
The company maintained its equipment to ensure productivity.
💡 Simply: Imagine your bike! When you maintain it, you fix anything that’s broken, keep it clean, and make sure it’s always ready to ride. It’s like taking care of something so it stays in good shape.
👶 For kids: To take care of something and make sure it stays working right.
More Examples
It's important to maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle.
The museum is committed to maintaining its historical artifacts.
How It's Used
"The engineers maintain the bridge by regularly inspecting and repairing it."
"Properly maintaining your car will help to extend its lifespan."
To state or assert something, typically as a fact.
/meɪnˈteɪn/
To state or assert something as a fact.
The witness maintained that she saw the suspect at the crime scene.
💡 Simply: Imagine you’re in a debate. If you maintain your argument, you keep saying what you believe is true, even when others disagree. It’s about sticking to your story and not changing your mind.
👶 For kids: To keep saying something is true.
More Examples
Despite the criticism, the author maintained his original position.
He maintained his innocence even after the evidence seemed to point against him.
How It's Used
"The lawyer maintained his client's innocence throughout the trial."
"She maintained her argument despite strong opposition."
To provide financial support or sustenance for someone or something.
/meɪnˈteɪn/
He maintained his family through years of hard work.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're giving money to help someone live. If you maintain them, you're providing for their needs, like food, housing, and other essentials. It’s like being a caregiver.
👶 For kids: To give someone or something the things they need to live.
More Examples
The charity maintains several orphanages around the world.
The company needs to maintain its employees to show appreciation.
How It's Used
"The father maintains his family through his job."
"The government maintains social programs."
Idioms & expressions
maintain a silence
To remain silent.
"The crowd maintained a silence as the speaker began."
maintain order
To ensure that a situation is calm and controlled.
"The police were called to maintain order during the protest."
From Middle English *mainteinen*, from Old French *maintenir* (“to hold, support, maintain”), from *main* (“hand”) + *tenir* (“to hold”).
The word 'maintain' has been used since the 14th century, originally with meanings related to supporting or upholding something.
Memory tip
Think of a building you maintain - you fix what's broken!
Word Origin
"to hold, support"