Main entry: observe, maintain, keep
Definition: stick to correctly or closely
Usage: The pianist kept time with the metronome; keep count; I cannot keep track of all my employees
Definition: support against an opponent
Usage: The appellate court upheld the verdict
Main entry: assert, asseverate, maintain
Definition: state categorically
Definition: state or assert
Usage: He maintained his innocence
Definition: maintain by writing regular records
Usage: keep a diary; maintain a record; keep notes
Main entry: sustain, maintain, keep
Definition: supply with necessities and support
Usage: She alone sustained her family; The money will sustain our good cause; There's little to earn and many to keep
Definition: maintain for use and service
Usage: I keep a car in the countryside; She keeps an apartment in Paris for her shopping trips
Main entry: exert, maintain, wield
Definition: have and exercise
Usage: wield power and authority
Main entry: preserve, maintain, keep up, conserve
Definition: keep in safety and protect from harm, decay, loss, or destruction
Usage: We preserve these archeological findings; The old lady could not keep up the building; children must be taught to conserve our national heritage; The museum curator conserved the ancient manuscripts
Main entry: keep, maintain, hold
Definition: keep in a certain state, position, or activity; e.g., "keep clean"
Usage: hold in place; She always held herself as a lady; The students keep me on my toes