maintain
/meɪnˈteɪn/
verb
maintains;
maintained;
maintaining
maintains;
maintained;
maintaining
Britannica Dictionary definition of MAINTAIN
[+ object]
1
:
to cause (something) to exist or continue without changing
-
They have always maintained high standards of professional conduct.
-
He has found it difficult to maintain a healthy weight.
-
maintain a good reputation
-
They barely had enough food to maintain life. [=to make it possible for life to exist or continue]
2
:
to keep (something) in good condition by making repairs, correcting problems, etc.
3
:
to continue having or doing (something)
-
She was finding it hard to maintain her balance.
-
She still maintains a close relationship with her college roommate.
-
It's difficult to maintain a correspondence when we're both so busy.
-
The pilot was struggling to maintain control of the aircraft.
-
The police say that they will do whatever is necessary to maintain law and order.
-
She continues to maintain her silence. [=she continues to say nothing]
-
He was struggling to maintain his cool/composure. [=he was struggling not to become angry or upset]
4
:
to say that (something) is true
-
He maintains that such decisions are best left to local authorities.
-
He continues to maintain his innocence. = He continues to maintain that he is innocent.
-
She maintains that my theory is flawed.
5
:
to provide support for (someone or something)