maintenance
/ˈmeɪntənəns/
NOUN
1. The process of keeping something in good condition
The work of inspecting, cleaning, repairing, or servicing something to preserve its condition and prevent deterioration.
1.1. Repair and upkeep of equipment or machinery
Regular work performed on machines, vehicles, equipment, or systems to keep them functioning properly and prevent breakdowns.
Synonyms
- upkeep
- servicing
- care
- repairs
- preservation
Antonyms
- neglect
- disrepair
- deterioration
Examples
- Regular maintenance of the car helps prevent expensive repairs.
- The factory performs preventive maintenance on all its machinery.
Related Words
- inspection
- overhaul
- restoration
- troubleshooting
- lubrication
1.2. Care and upkeep of buildings or property
Activities such as cleaning, repairing, and preserving buildings, gardens, or other property to keep them safe, functional, and presentable.
Synonyms
- upkeep
- care
- preservation
- conservation
- repairs
Antonyms
- neglect
- dereliction
- disrepair
Examples
- The building requires regular maintenance to remain safe.
- The landlord is responsible for the maintenance of the property.
Related Words
- renovation
- restoration
- housekeeping
- management
- protection
NOUN
2. The act of preserving or continuing something
The process of keeping a particular condition, state, standard, or activity in existence over time.
2.1. Preservation of a condition or state
The continued effort to protect or preserve a particular situation, condition, relationship, or standard from changing or deteriorating.
Synonyms
- preservation
- conservation
- protection
- sustenance
- upkeep
Antonyms
- destruction
- deterioration
- neglect
- abandonment
Examples
- The maintenance of peace requires cooperation between nations.
- The organization focuses on the maintenance of high ethical standards.
Related Words
- stability
- continuity
- safeguarding
- sustainability
- retention
2.2. Continuation of an activity or process
The act of keeping an activity, operation, or process going without interruption or premature termination.
Synonyms
- continuation
- continuance
- sustenance
- prolongation
- perpetuation
Antonyms
- termination
- cessation
- discontinuation
- interruption
Examples
- The maintenance of daily operations is essential during the transition.
- Regular communication contributes to the maintenance of a productive partnership.
Related Words
NOUN
3. Financial support for a person
Money or resources provided to meet the basic living needs of an individual or family.
3.1. Financial support for living expenses
Money provided to cover essential needs such as food, housing, clothing, and other everyday expenses.
Synonyms
- support
- subsistence
- sustenance
- livelihood
- alimony
Antonyms
- self-sufficiency
- independence
Examples
- The court ordered him to provide maintenance for his former spouse.
- She received financial maintenance while completing her education.
Related Words
3.2. Alimony or spousal support
Financial payments made by one former spouse to another, usually following divorce or separation, to help cover living expenses.
Synonyms
- alimony
- spousal support
- financial support
- allowance
Examples
- The divorce agreement included monthly maintenance payments.
- She applied for maintenance after the separation.
Related Words
- divorce
- separation
- child support
- court order
- settlement
3.3. Financial support for a child
Money provided by a parent or guardian to cover a child's essential needs, including food, clothing, housing, and education.
Synonyms
- child support
- financial support
- subsistence
- provision
Examples
- The court determined the amount of maintenance required for the child.
- Both parents contributed to the maintenance of their children.
Related Words
- parental responsibility
- childcare
- allowance
- alimony
- living expenses
NOUN
4. The natural process of keeping an organism alive
The biological processes and resources necessary to sustain life and support the normal functioning of an organism.
4.1. Sustenance and nourishment for survival
The provision or use of food, nutrients, and other essential resources required to keep a living organism alive and functioning.
Synonyms
- sustenance
- nourishment
- alimentation
- nutrition
- nurture
Antonyms
- starvation
- deprivation
- malnutrition
Examples
- Adequate nutrition is essential for the maintenance of healthy body functions.
- The organism depends on a continuous supply of nutrients for maintenance.
Related Words
NOUN
5. Improper assistance in another person's lawsuit
A legal tort involving a third party who, without a legitimate interest, provides assistance or financial support to a party involved in litigation.
5.1. Unjustified support in legal proceedings
A legal concept involving unauthorized assistance or financial backing given to a litigant by someone who has no legitimate interest in the lawsuit.
Synonyms
- litigation support
- improper assistance
- unauthorized backing
Examples
- The claim alleged maintenance because an unrelated party financed the litigation.
- The court considered whether the third party's involvement amounted to maintenance.
Related Words
- champerty
- litigation
- lawsuit
- legal proceedings
- third-party involvement