social security

[ soh-shuhl si-kyoor-i-tee ]

noun

1. Usually Social Security. a program of old-age, unemployment, health, disability, and survivors insurance maintained by the U.S. federal government through compulsory payments by specific employer and employee groups. Compare OASDI ( def ).
2. the theory or practice of providing economic security and social welfare for the individual through government programs maintained by funds from public taxation.

social security

noun

1. public provision for the economic, and sometimes social, welfare of the aged, unemployed, etc, esp through pensions and other monetary assistance
2. often capitals a government programme designed to provide such assistance

Word History and Origins

Origin of social security¹

First recorded in 1930–35

Example Sentences

The TVA, a federally owned and chartered electric power provider, is a New Deal legacy just like Social Security.

From The Daily Beast

Even Democrats and Republicans can agree that Nazis are bad and Social Security is good.

From The Daily Beast

Nearly a year later, a visit to the local Social Security office enlightened us.

From The Daily Beast

Illegal immigrants have already paid about $1 trillion into social security.

From The Daily Beast

When George Bush talked about privatizing Social Security, that was a short conversation.

From The Daily Beast

There must be social security, or the industry and competence would not be put to so hazardous a use.

From Project Gutenberg

A small hospital pension and Social Security have eliminated all financial worries at least for the present.

From Project Gutenberg

We increase spending next year for Social Security and Medicare and other entitlement programs by $81 billion.

From Project Gutenberg

Everyone in this Chamber knows that Social Security is not prepared to fully fund their retirement.

From Project Gutenberg

A growing economy and a focus on essential priorities will also be crucial to the future of Social Security.

From Project Gutenberg