maintenance
maintenance Lexical Profile
maintenance Game Scores & Validity
• noun
The process of keeping a physical asset, system, or property in good working condition through regular inspections and repairs.
"The building requires constant maintenance to ensure the safety of its residents."
The act of preserving a specific condition, state of affairs, or situation.
"The maintenance of international peace and security is the primary goal of the United Nations."
Financial support provided for a person's living expenses, especially as mandated by a court following a divorce or separation.
"He was ordered to pay monthly maintenance to his ex-wife for the support of their children."
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
From Middle English, borrowed from Old French 'maintenance', from the verb 'maintenir' (to hold in the hand, sustain), ultimately from Latin 'manus' (hand) and 'tenere' (to hold).
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.