I. ˈwelˌfa(a)](ə)r, -ˌfe], ]ə\ noun
( -s )
Etymology: Middle English, from the phrase wel faren to fare well, from Old English wel faran, from wel well + faran to fare — more at well , fare
1.
a. : the state of faring or doing well : thriving or successful progress in life : a state characterized especially by good fortune, happiness, well-being, or prosperity
we can use the knowledge … for the future welfare of humanity — H.S.Truman
a generous mother who sincerely seeks her child's welfare — H.M.Parshley
increasing production has made welfare for all seem … possible — A.J.Toynbee
— opposed to illfare
b. : the state or condition (as of a person or enterprise) in regard to well-being ; especially : one's condition in regard to health, happiness, or prosperity
the effects of climate upon the welfare … of man — D.H.K.Lee
guilty of gross negligence of the welfare of his workers — T.P.Whitney
c. : the sum of individual utilities : a social optimum
2. : welfare work
helped to make music a recognized part of industrial welfare — Kenneth Baynes
3. : relief 2a
II. adjective
: of, relating to, or concerned with welfare and especially with improvement of the welfare of social groups (as children, workers, or underprivileged or disabled persons)
welfare agencies
welfare services
private welfare foundations