poor law

noun

1. a law or system of laws providing for the relief or support of poor people at public expense.

poor law

noun

1. English history a law providing for the relief or support of the poor from public, esp parish, funds

Word History and Origins

Origin of poor law¹

First recorded in 1745–55

Example Sentences

If they were only vested with complete control over the poor-law management, the evils of the present system would soon disappear.

From Project Gutenberg

In over 100 places the Poor Law Commissioners had practically failed to introduce their new principles at all.

From Project Gutenberg

What is more remarkable is to find even able subordinates of the Poor Law Commissioners talking as if they took this view.

From Project Gutenberg

At these early types of Poor Law schools the children received both scholastic and industrial training.

From Project Gutenberg

It is therefore unnecessary to attempt any summary of the whole policy of the Poor Law Board as such.

From Project Gutenberg