definition of
maintain

[1] #1 maintain v. [keep, hold] keep in a certain state, position, or activity; e.g., "keep clean"; "hold in place"; "She always held herself as a lady"; "The students keep me on my toes". wn

[2] #2 maintain v. [conserve, preserve, keep up] keep in safety and protect from harm, decay, loss, or destruction; "We preserve these archeological findings"; "The old lady could not keep up the building"; "children must be taught to conserve our national heritage"; "The museum curator conserved the an. wn

[3] #3 maintain v. [sustain, keep] supply with necessities and support; "She alone sustained her family"; "The money will sustain our good cause"; "There's little to earn and many to keep". wn

[4] #4 maintain v. [assert, asseverate] state categorically. wn

[5] #5 maintain v. [wield, exert] have and exercise; "wield power and authority". wn