maintenance

Universal Words noun [U] 1 ~ (of sth) the act of keeping sth in good condition by checking or repairing it regularly: The school pays for heating and the maintenance of the buildings. * car maintenance 2 ~ (of sth) the act of making a state or situation continue: the maintenance of international peace 3 (BrE, law) money that sb must pay regularly to their former wife, husband or partner, especially when they have had children together: He has to pay maintenance to his ex-wife. * child maintenance * a maintenance order (= given by a court of law) seealsoALIMONY