Maintainer: meaning, definitions and examples

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maintainer

 

[ meɪnˈteɪnər ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

software development

A maintainer is an individual responsible for overseeing the ongoing development and maintenance of a software project. This includes managing updates, bug fixes, and ensuring the project's codebase remains stable and functional. Maintainers often review contributions from other developers, guiding the direction of the project while communicating with the community.

Synonyms

custodian, manager, supervisor

Examples of usage

  • The maintainer approved the latest pull request.
  • As a maintainer, she ensures the project's dependencies are updated regularly.
  • The maintainer organized a meeting to discuss upcoming features.
Context #2 | Noun

general maintenance

A maintainer can also refer to a person who is responsible for the upkeep of a facility, equipment, or systems. This role can encompass a variety of tasks aimed at ensuring everything operates correctly and safely.

Synonyms

administrator, caretaker, overseer

Examples of usage

  • The building maintainer handled the plumbing issues swiftly.
  • She works as a maintainer for the school's facilities.
  • Every maintainer on the team is trained in basic safety protocols.

Etymology

The word 'maintainer' is derived from the Middle English term 'mainten', which comes from the Old French word 'maintenir', meaning 'to hold', 'to keep', or 'to sustain'. This Old French term has its origins in the Latin word 'manu tenere', a combination of 'manu' (hand) and 'tenere' (to hold). Historically, the concept of maintenance pertains to the act of preserving or keeping something in a certain state, and the role of a maintainer has evolved with the rise of organizations and technology. In the context of software, the term gained traction in the late 20th century as open source projects flourished, with individuals stepping up to ensure projects are actively preserved and enhanced. The maintainer’s role has become critical in collaborative software environments, where code contributions from various developers necessitate a guiding presence to maintain coherence and quality.