maintenance

(mānˈtə-nəns)

1. The act of maintaining or the state of being maintained.
2. The work of keeping something in proper condition; upkeep.
3. a. Provision of support or livelihood: took over the maintenance of her family.
   b. Means of support or livelihood: was ordered to pay maintenance for both children.
4. Law The wrongful aiding of another in the pursuit or defense of a lawsuit, especially in jurisdictions where nonparties are legally prohibited to provide financial assistance.