maintains; maintained; maintaining
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.
The company has done a poor job of maintaining its computer network.
It was obvious that the house had been poorly maintained.
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)
He has a family to maintain.
Cite this Entry
“Maintain.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/maintain. Accessed 15 Apr. 2026.
Copy Citation
