Skip to main content
to maintain

to maintain

225 3.1
Keep something in good condition by repairing and protecting it
  • verb
  • /meɪnˈteɪn/
translation icon : mantener
  • There is a huge advantage in procuring the appropriate equipment and maintaining it throughout its lifetime.
  • maintain a system
  • maintain a website
  • maintain a database

You know, these are things that help me maintain my look.

Autoplay Next

Examples

  • The Library of Congress and Georgia Archives each maintain original copies of this map.

    Academic text (2011)
  • Those are just general ways to maintain active brain health and memory.

  • I know how to maintain and properly build a building.

  • And we can actually maintain muscle as we get older.

  • I have to maintain the ancient traditions.

  • Sustainable management practices can help maintain forest soil fertility and productivity following harvest.

    Academic text (2008)
  • Homeowners must regularly maintain their roofs to prevent leaks and damage.

  • To ensure the school's playground remains safe, staff need to maintain the equipment and perform safety checks.

  • He decided to maintain his car by regularly changing the oil and checking the tires.

Synonyms

to preserve
vsto maintain
496 3.4

To keep people and things safe from harm or change

adds active repair work and attention to prevent decline over time
to conserve
vsto maintain
63 3.4

Protect something from harm or waste by using it carefully

stresses active repair and upkeep rather than limited or careful use
to keep up
vsto maintain
53 3.0

To take care of something so it stays in good condition

includes that and also covers repairs and stopping deterioration
to service
vsto maintain
31 3.2

To check and repair a machine or vehicle so it works well

focuses more on ongoing care and prevention beyond simple repairs

Antonyms

773 3.1

Leave someone or something behind permanently and without care

256 3.8

Fail to care for someone or something you should look after

Idioms

To keep your face looking serious and not show you are laughing

Keep a morally better or stronger position in an argument

To keep an advantage or control over others

How Maintained

overhaul
73 5.1
to service
31 3.2
to maintain
225 3.1
to tend
174 1.0
to neglect
256 3.8

Surface Forms

maintain infinitive
maintained past
maintained past participle
maintaining present participle
maintains third person singular

Etymology

Maintain comes from Latin parts manu 'hand' and tenere 'to hold', which once meant to 'hold in the hand'. So to maintain something like a car or a house is to keep holding it in good condition.