To keep up; to preserve; to uphold (a state, condition etc.).
To declare or affirm (a clause) to be true; to assert.
To have a negative impact on (someone's position, chances etc.).
To cause prejudice in; to bias the mind of.
An adverse judgment or opinion formed beforehand or without knowledge of the facts.
A preconception, any preconceived opinion or feeling, whether positive or negative.
An irrational hostile attitude, fear or hatred towards a particular group, race or religion.