n.
Pronunciation: ' wel- ˌ fer
Function: 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