Welfare

/ˈwɛl.fɛər/

Meaning & Definition

noun
The health, happiness, and fortunes of a person or group.
The charity's main aim is to improve the welfare of disadvantaged children.
Government support for the citizens and residents of a community.
Many people rely on government welfare programs to get through difficult times.
Financial assistance given to those in need.
She applied for welfare to help cover her living expenses while she searched for a job.
A state of doing well, especially in respect to good fortune, happiness, and prosperity.
The research focused on the overall welfare of the population during the crisis.

Etymology

From the Middle English 'welfare', combining 'well' and 'fare', meaning 'to do well'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

welfare state
A government that provides a range of social services to its citizens.
on welfare
Receiving government assistance because of low income or unemployment.
welfare checks
Monetary payments issued by the government to individuals in need.

Related Words

benefit
A payment or gift made by an employer or the government to support individual needs.
aid
Help or support given to those in need.
assistance
The provision of resources to help others in need.

Slang Meanings

Welfare queen
The term 'welfare queen' is often used in a derogatory manner to describe someone who allegedly exploits welfare systems.
Welfare mom
The phrase 'welfare mom' can imply that a mother is reliant on government assistance for her family's well-being.