low-maintenance

adjective

low-main·​te·​nance ˈlō-ˈmānt-nən(t)s 

-ˈmān-tə-nən(t)s

1

: requiring little care or maintenance

low-maintenance fabrics

a low-maintenance garden

What was also high on their beauty wish list? Keeping their natural hair as a basis for a look that is professional as well as low-maintenance.

—Essence

2

of a person : not tending to cause problems or demand attention : easy and pleasant to deal with or work with

"Bobby Jay is one of those high-character, low-maintenance guys you look for," said Rick Dudley, Lightning vice president of hockey operations. "He has a tremendous work ethic."

—Nancy Marrapese-Burrell

He's a rare breed, a low-maintenance White House aide.

—Fred Barnes

Examples of low-maintenance in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Kalanchoes are popular, low-maintenance succulent houseplants known for their bright, long-lasting flowers and ease of care. —Chris McKeown, Cincinnati Enquirer, 7 Feb. 2026

Even professional gardeners have a fondness for low-maintenance plants. —Tessa Cooper, The Spruce, 6 Feb. 2026

This year, trends across beauty—from low-maintenance hair color to manicures—are focusing on comfort and convenience. —Laura Solla, Glamour, 4 Feb. 2026

The low-maintenance ranch homes come in multiple styles ranging from two to three bedrooms and from around 1,500 to 2,750 square feet, officials have said. —R. Christian Smith, Chicago Tribune, 3 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1916, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for low-maintenance

• maintenance