'high-maintenance' originates from the combination of 'high' and 'maintenance', where 'high' indicates a large amount or degree, and 'maintenance' refers to the process of maintaining or preserving someone or something.

The term 'high-maintenance' evolved from the need to describe objects or people that require significant upkeep or attention.

Initially, it referred to objects needing frequent care, but it has expanded to describe people with demanding personalities.