English

Adjective

high-maintenance ‎(comparative more high-maintenance, superlative most high-maintenance)

1. Describes a system which requires a high degree of maintenance to ensure proper functioning and without which it is likely to break down.
2. (figuratively, pejorative, of a person) requiring a lot of attention or reassurance; emotionally needy

   He has this incredibly high-maintenance girlfriend; if he doesn't tell her that he loves her every five minutes, she tends to break down into hysterical depressive weepy fits.

Usage notes

• According to the Random House Historical Dictionary of American Slang, "high-maintenance" was popularized by When Harry Met Sally..., an American film released in 1989.

Antonyms

• low-maintenance

See also

• brittle
• finicky
• temperamental