maintenance

main-te-nance · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    The process of keeping something in good condition through regular checking and repair.

  2. 2.

    The process of keeping something at the same level or state.

  3. 3.

    Financial support provided for a former spouse or children after separation or divorce; alimony.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    maintenance crew/team — workers responsible for keeping equipment or buildings in good condition
  • •
    scheduled maintenance — planned regular servicing
  • •
    low maintenance — requiring little care or attention
  • •
    high maintenance — requiring a lot of care, attention, or effort

Related words

Antonyms: disrepair, neglect
See also: maintain, repair, service, upkeep
Synonyms: care, preservation, servicing, upkeep

Etymology

From Old French maintenance ("upholding, support"), from maintenir ("to maintain"), from Latin manu tenere ("to hold in the hand").