The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word AFFIRMED
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
A
F
F
I
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M
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D
More clues leading to the result AFFIRMED
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Maintained" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case maintained = affirmed.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does AFFIRMED mean?
AFFIRMED verb- To agree, verify or concur; to answer positively.
- To assert positively; to tell with confidence; to aver; to maintain as true.
- To support or encourage.
- To make firm; to confirm, or ratify; especially to assert or confirm, as a judgment, decree, or order, brought before an appellate court for review.