adjectiveother

entretenu

maintain

Definition & meaning

The word entretenu is the past participle of the French verb entretenir. It has several meanings depending on the context:

  1. Maintained or kept in good condition: It refers to something that has been looked after, repaired, or preserved over time. For example, a well-maintained house or a well-kept garden.
  2. Supported financially: It describes a person who is financially provided for by someone else, often implying that they do not work for their own income.
  3. Sustained or kept alive: It can refer to an abstract concept, such as a conversation, a relationship, or a fire, that is being kept going or fueled.

Grammar & Word origin

  • Grammar: It is the past participle of the verb entretenir. As an adjective, it must agree in gender and number with the noun it modifies (e.g., une maison entretenue).
  • Word origin: The word is formed by the prefix entre- (between/among) and the verb tenir (to hold). Historically, it meant to "hold together" or "keep in connection."

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms:

  • Maintenu: kept in a state or condition.
  • Soigné: well-cared for or looked after.
  • Conservé: preserved or kept.
  • Soutenu: supported or financially assisted.

Antonyms:

  • Négligé: neglected or poorly kept.
  • Abandonné: abandoned or left without care.
  • Délaissé: forsaken or disregarded.

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Examples

Mon vélo est bien entretenu.adjective

My bike is well maintained.

Elle a entretenu le jardin tout l’été.adjective

She maintained the garden all summer.

Le musée a entretenu des liens avec le quartier.adjective

The museum has maintained ties with the neighborhood.

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