maintain

Definition

To keep up; to preserve; to uphold (a state, condition etc.).

Etymology

From Middle English mayntenen, from Old French maintenir, from Late Latin manūteneō, manūtenēre (“I support”), from Latin manū (“with/in/by the hand”, ablative of manus) + tenēre (“to hold”).

Example Sentences

• "maintain contact"
• "maintain order"
• "maintain a relationship"