- pronunciation:
- wel
fer
- features:
- Word History, Word Explorer
| part of speech: |
noun |
| definition 1: |
a state of health, happiness, and good fortune.
A good teacher is concerned about the welfare of her students.The organization promoted people's welfare by helping them find jobs.- synonyms:
- good, well-being
- similar words:
- advantage, benefit, comfort, fortune, happiness, health, interest, profit, prosperity, success
|
| definition 2: |
public or private aid to people in need.
Welfare helped her family get through a tough time.- synonyms:
- assistance
- similar words:
- aid, compensation, relief
|
| related words: |
charity |
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The word
welfare comes from two Old English words that mean "get along" and "well." These same Old English words form the word "farewell."