maintain

(mān-tānˈ)

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. a. To provide for; support: maintain a family.
   b. 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.

Related Forms:

• main·tainˌa·bilˈi·ty noun

• main·tainˈa·ble adjective

• main·tainˈer noun