welfare

Universal Words noun [U] 1 the general health, happiness and safety of a person, an animal or a group SYNWELL-BEING: We are concerned about the child's welfare. 2 practical or financial help that is provided, often by the government, for people or animals that need it: The state is still the main provider of welfare. * animal / child welfare * a social welfare programme * welfare provision / services / work 3 (especially AmE) = SOCIALSECURITY: They would rather work than live on welfare.