maintenance
UK[ˈmeɪntənəns]US[ˈmeɪntənəns]
n
The process of keeping something in good condition by regularly checking it and repairing it when necessary.
n
The act of continuing or providing something, such as a state, a process, or a payment.
Morpheme Breakdown
mainten
ance
mainten
hold, keep
ance
noun suffix
Etymology
The word "maintenance" entered English in the 14th century via Anglo-French, derived from the Old French verb maintenir, meaning "to uphold, sustain, or keep". This French term itself originates from the Latin phrase manu tenēre, literally "to hold in the hand" (manus "hand" + tenēre "to hold"). The core semantic logic evolved from the physical act of holding something firmly in one's grasp to the more abstract concept of keeping something in a particular state or condition. Over time, "maintenance" specialized to refer specifically to the ongoing work required to preserve the function and condition of an object, system, or relationship, embodying the idea of "keeping it in hand."
Analysis
Structure: mainten (hold, keep) + ance (noun suffix)
- mainten: From Old French maintenir, from Latin manu tenēre ("to hold in the hand"). In this word, it functions as the verb root meaning "to keep, to uphold".
- ance: A noun-forming suffix of French/Latin origin (-antia) indicating an action, process, or state.
Examples
Regular maintenance of your car can prevent major breakdowns.
The software requires frequent maintenance to fix bugs and improve security.
He pays monthly maintenance for the upkeep of his children.