The word 维持 is formed by combining two independent characters, each contributing a core meaning to create a new, unified concept. 维 originally conveys the idea of "tying" or "connecting", suggesting the binding together of a system or state. 持 means "to hold" or "to grasp", implying active control and support. When fused, they form the compound idea of "to maintain", that is, to actively hold together and keep something (like order, life, or a condition) in its existing, connected state.