social security

American  

[soh-shuhl si-kyoor-i-tee] / ˈsoʊ ʃəl sɪˈkyʊər ɪ ti /

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.

2. the theory or practice of providing economic security and social welfare for the individual through government programs maintained by funds from public taxation.

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social security British  

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

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Etymology

Origin of social security

First recorded in 1930–35

Example Sentences

Beijing’s Five-Year Plan emphasizes public well-being and social security, signaling a shift towards structural reforms.

From Barron's • Apr. 27, 2026

The slice of the population claiming social security support because of a disability is rising across the UK but the increase is quicker in Scotland where disability benefits are designed to be easier to access.

From BBC • Apr. 11, 2026

"I hate it," says David McQueen, retired Vietnam veteran who depends on social security for his livelihood.

From BBC • Apr. 7, 2026

State pensions in most of Europe remain more generous than U.S. social security, reducing the incentive to build nest eggs in the market.

From Barron's • Mar. 30, 2026

“Humph, every cent. You won’t even have no social security if you’re dead. Better not die, that’s all I got to say.”

From "The Great Gilly Hopkins" by Katherine Paterson