Main Entry: ¹wel·fare

Pronunciation: \ˈwel-ˌfer\

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