'dully-maintained' originates from the English word 'dull,' which comes from Old English 'dol,' meaning 'stupid' or 'foolish,' and 'maintained,' from Old French 'maintenir,' meaning 'to hold in hand.'

'dull' changed from Old English 'dol' to Middle English 'dul,' and eventually became the modern English word 'dull.' 'Maintained' evolved from Old French 'maintenir' to Middle English 'maintene,' and eventually became 'maintain.'

Initially, 'dull' meant 'stupid,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'lacking brightness or liveliness.' 'Maintained' has largely retained its original meaning of 'to keep in a certain state.'