Maintainers

/meɪnˈteɪnərz/ noun

Definition

People or entities responsible for keeping something in good condition, particularly in software development, those who manage and update open-source projects.

Etymology

From Old French 'maintenir' meaning 'to hold in the hand' or 'support', from Latin 'manu tenere' (to hold by hand). The modern technical sense developed with the rise of software development and open-source communities.

Kelly Says

Open-source software maintainers often work voluntarily, creating a fascinating economy where critical infrastructure depends on people's goodwill and spare time. Some of the world's most important software is maintained by just a handful of people who often struggle with burnout and lack of funding.

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