illegally-maintained
|il-le-gal-ly-main-tained|
C1
/ɪˈliːɡəli meɪnˈteɪnd/
(maintain)
keep in existence
Etymology
Etymology Information
'maintain' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'manutenere,' where 'manu-' meant 'hand' and 'tenere' meant 'to hold.'
Historical Evolution
'manutenere' transformed into the Old French word 'maintenir,' and eventually became the modern English word 'maintain' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to hold in the hand,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to keep in a state of repair or operation.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
kept in a state of repair or operation in a manner that violates legal regulations.
The illegally-maintained building was eventually condemned by the city.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/05/16 12:02