maintain
v.v. to keep something in good condition by checking or repairing it regularly. It can also mean to continue saying that something is true, even if others disagree.
v. to keep something in a specified state or condition; to provide for the upkeep of a physical object. Also used to assert a position or claim strongly in an argument.
You must maintain your car to keep it running well.
The city works hard to maintain the public parks so they remain safe for families to use.
Despite facing intense questioning from the committee, the witness continued to maintain that he had no prior knowledge of the financial discrepancies.
From Middle English mayntenen, from Old French maintenir, from Late Latin manūteneō, manūtenēre (“I support”), from Latin manū (“with/in/by the hand”, ablative of manus) + tenēre (“to hold”).
The verb is transitive and requires a direct object. When used to mean 'assert', it is often followed by a 'that' clause.
He maintains to be innocent.He maintains that he is innocent.When used to state a belief or fact, this verb takes a 'that' clause rather than an infinitive.