maintain/meɪn'teɪn/

v.

➊ cause a condition or state to continue

➋ keep sth in good condition by checking or repairing it regularly

v. [T]

➊ 维持：We must maintain good relations with the media. 我们必须维持好与媒体的关系。

➋ 维修；维护：The roads in the city have been poorly maintained. 这个城市的道路养护得不好。

构词原义为hold in the hand

同根 attain; contain; obtain