Definition of maintain

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main·tain    (mn-tn) KEY 

TRANSITIVE VERB:
main·tained, main·tain·ing, main·tains

1. To keep up or carry on; continue: maintain good relations.
2. To keep in an existing state; preserve or retain: maintain one's composure.
3. To keep in a condition of good repair or efficiency: maintain two cars.
4. 1. To provide for; support: maintain a family.
   2. To keep in existence; sustain: enough food to maintain life.
5. To defend or hold against criticism or attack: maintained his stand on taxes.
6. To declare to be true; affirm: maintained her innocence.
7. To adhere or conform to; keep: maintain a busy schedule.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Middle English maintainen, from Old French maintenir, from Medieval Latin manutenre, from Latin man tenre, to hold in the hand : man, ablative of manus, hand; see man-² in Indo-European roots + tenre, to hold; see ten- in Indo-European roots

OTHER FORMS:
main·taina·bili·ty(Noun), main·taina·ble(Adjective), main·tainer(Noun)