'maintenance' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'maintenance', which is related to the verb 'maintenir' (to hold up/maintain). The ultimate roots are Latin elements 'manus' (hand) and 'tenēre' (to hold).

'maintenance' came into English via Middle English from Old French 'maintenance', which in turn derived from the verb formed from Latin components (manu- + tenēre). Over time the Old French noun and verb forms developed into the modern English 'maintenance'.

Initially, related to the idea of 'holding' or 'support' (literally 'holding in the hand' from Latin roots), it evolved to mean 'the act of keeping something in good condition' and also took on the sense of 'financial support' in specific contexts.