AskEraser  |  Settings
Ask.com   
 


Synonyms
main·te·nance (māńtə-nəns)

[Middle English maintenaunce, from Old French maintenance, from maintenir, to maintain; see maintain.]

noun 

  1. The act of maintaining or the state of being maintained.
  2. The work of keeping something in proper condition; upkeep.
    1. Provision of support or livelihood: took over the maintenance of her family.
    2. Means of support or livelihood: was ordered to pay maintenance for both children.
  4. Law The unlawful meddling in a suit by providing either party with the means to carry it on.