main‧te‧nance W3 AC / meɪnt ə nəns / 名词 [不可数名词]

1 the repairs, painting etc that are necessary to keep something in good condition :

the cost of repairs and maintenance

maintenance of

The caretaker is responsible for the maintenance of the school buildings.

The theatres were closed on Saturday and Sunday for routine maintenance .

Engineers are carrying out essential maintenance work on the main line to Cambridge.

an evening class in car maintenance

maintenance crew/man/staff (= someone who looks after buildings and equipment for a school or company )

2 the act of making a state or situation continue

maintenance of

The purpose of the UN is the maintenance of international peace and security.

The maintenance of a firm currency plays an important part in the battle against inflation.

3 British English money paid by someone who is divorced to their former wife or husband 同义词 alimony :

They have to find the fathers who abandon their children and make them pay maintenance.