social security

American  

[soh-shuhl si-kyoor-i-tee] / ˈsoʊ ʃəl sɪˈkjʊər 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

I could survive with 10%, but my brother has a much lower-paying career, and I would struggle to forgive my father if his actions deprived my brother of financial security.

From MarketWatch • Jul. 6, 2026

Survey respondents said the dream's key elements were personal freedom, financial security and homeownership, and success and upward mobility.

From Barron's • Jul. 1, 2026

She is your mother, but you don’t owe her your own financial security, and you don’t owe her your peace of mind.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 27, 2026

Those motivated primarily by financial security would likely opt out.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 19, 2026

Her parents made the match with business and stability in mind: Johann gained a skilled, hard-working partner, while Maria gained social and financial security.

From "The Girl Who Drew Butterflies: How Maria Merian's Art Changed Science" by Joyce Sidman