Maintenance
ˈmeɪntənəns
Definitions
2 meaningsThe process of keeping something in good condition by checking or repairing it regularly.
ˈmeɪntənəns
The process of preserving a condition or situation, or the state of being preserved.
The car requires regular maintenance to ensure its optimal performance.
💡 Simply: Imagine you have a bike. Maintenance is like giving your bike check-ups, fixing squeaky parts, and making sure it runs smoothly so you can keep riding it. It's about keeping something in good shape!
👶 For kids: Maintenance is like taking care of something so it stays working well, like making sure your toys don't break.
More Examples
Proper building maintenance helps prevent costly repairs down the line.
The company's commitment to environmental maintenance includes recycling programs.
How It's Used
"Regular maintenance is crucial for the longevity of the machinery."
"The cost of building maintenance is included in the annual budget."
Financial support or provision of basic needs, especially for a spouse or child after separation or divorce.
ˈmeɪntənəns
The provision of financial support for someone's living expenses.
The judge awarded spousal maintenance to the wife following the divorce.
💡 Simply: Imagine someone is helping to support a family after a divorce by providing money to pay for food, housing, and other essential things. This is financial maintenance.
👶 For kids: Maintenance can also mean giving someone money to help them live, like helping them buy food or a place to live.
More Examples
Child maintenance payments are essential for supporting the children's upbringing.
The agreement stipulated the amount of maintenance to be paid monthly.
How It's Used
"The court ordered the husband to pay maintenance to his ex-wife."
"Child maintenance is the financial support given to a child after a divorce or separation."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
maintenance schedule
A planned timetable for regular upkeep or repair of something.
"The technician followed the maintenance schedule to check all the equipment."
From Middle English maintenaunce, from Old French maintenance (“keeping, preserving, protection”), from maintenir (“to maintain”).
The term has been used since the 14th century, initially referring to the act of maintaining or supporting someone or something. Over time, its meaning expanded to include upkeep and preservation.
Memory tip
Think of the 'main' aim of 'tenance': to keep things in a good state.
Word Origin
"to maintain, to support, to keep"