Dictionary.net

One who, not being interested, maintains a cause depending between others, by furnishing money, etc., to either party.

One who, not being interested, maintains a cause depending between others, by furnishing money, etc., to either party.

In criminal law. One that maintains or seconds a cause depending in suit between others, either by disbursing money or making friends for either party towards his help. Blount. One who is guilty of maintenance (q. v.)