MAINTAINING

Cause to continue in a certain state, position, or activity

Example: "Hold in place"

Keep in safety and protect from harm, decay, loss, or destruction

Example: "We preserve these archeological findings"

Supply with necessities and support

Example: "She alone sustained her family"

State categorically

Have and exercise

Example: "Wield power and authority"

Maintain for use and service

Example: "I keep a car in the countryside"

Maintain by writing regular records

Example: "Keep a diary"

State or assert

Example: "He maintained his innocence"

Support against an opponent

Example: "The appellate court upheld the verdict"

Stick to correctly or closely

Example: "The pianist kept time with the metronome"