I. ˈwel-ˌfer noun
Etymology: Middle English, from the phrase wel faren to fare well
Date: 14th century
1. : the state of doing well especially in respect to good fortune, happiness, well-being, or prosperity
must look out for your own welfare
2.
a. : aid in the form of money or necessities for those in need
b. : an agency or program through which such aid is distributed
II. adjective
Date: 1903
1. : of, relating to, or concerned with welfare and especially with improvement of the welfare of disadvantaged social groups
welfare legislation
2. : receiving public welfare benefits
welfare families