maintained

5 definitions • 9 examples

past simple and past participle of

to continue to have; to keep in existence, or not allow to become less:

The army has been brought in to maintain order in the region.

We have standards to maintain.

Despite living in different countries, the two families have maintained close links.

The film has maintained its position as the critics' favourite for another year.

to keep a road, machine, building, etc. in good condition:

A large house costs a lot to maintain.

The roads in the town have been very poorly maintained.

to express firmly your belief that something is true:

Throughout his prison sentence, Dunn has always maintained his innocence.

[ + that ] He maintains that he has never seen the woman before.

to provide someone with food and whatever is necessary for them to live on:

They barely earn enough to maintain themselves and their four children.