Meaning & Definition of word "Dole"
to
Dole
/doʊl/
noun:
- 1. A distribution of food or money to the needy.
- Example: The charity organized a dole for the homeless in the community.
- 2. A share or portion of something.
- Example: He received his dole of the inheritance after his father passed away.
verb:
- 1. To distribute or share out, especially food or money.
- Example: The volunteers will dole out meals to the families in need.
- 2. To waste time; to be idle.
- Example: He spent the afternoon doling about instead of studying for his exam.
Etymology
Middle English 'dole', from Old English 'dola' meaning a portion or a part.
Common Phrases and Expressions
dole out:
To distribute something in portions.
on the dole:
Receiving government benefits or assistance.
dole queue:
A line of people waiting to receive unemployment benefits.
Related Words
donate:
To give money or goods to help others.
charity:
The voluntary giving of help, typically in the form of money.
Slang Meanings of dole
Meaning: Welfare benefits received.
Example Sentence: He's on the dole, living off government payments.
Meaning: A lazy or unproductive person.
Example Sentence: Stop being such a dole and do something with your life.