ˈwelfɛə n. 1 well-being, happiness;
health and prosperity (of a
person or a
community etc.). 2 (Welfare) a
the maintenance of persons in
such a
condition esp. by
statutory procedure or
social effort. b
financial support given for this purpose. øwelfare
state 1 a
system whereby the State undertakes to
protect the health and well-being of
its citizens, esp.
those in financial or social
need, by
means of grants, pensions, etc. 2 a
country practising this system. welfare
work organized effort for the welfare of the
poor, disabled, etc. [ME f.
WELL(1) + FARE]