n.[U]

1. 维持，保持
   The maintenance of law and order is of vital importance.

   法律与秩序的维持是至关重要的。

2. 维修，保养
   Who is responsible for the building's maintenance?

   谁负责这座大楼的保养事宜？

3. 坚持，主张
4. 抚养；生活费；赡养费
   She worked hard to earn money for the maintenance of her family.

   她卖力干活为了挣钱养家糊口。

n.

1. the process of maintaining or the state of being maintained.
2. Brit. a husband's or wife's provision for a spouse after separation or divorce.
3. Law  the offence of aiding a party in a legal action without lawful cause.