public charge

American  

noun

1. a person who is in economic distress and is supported at government expense.

   He assured the American consul that the prospective immigrant would not become a public charge.

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Etymology

Origin of public charge

First recorded in 1880–85

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

public charge

Prices can vary a lot when using public charge points, depending on factors including the speed of the charger and the time of day.

From BBC ● Nov. 21, 2025

Only a portion of the people seeking to enter the country or change their status face a public charge determination.

From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 17, 2023

Here’s how much of the confusion about public charge rules arose, what the rules are now and to whom the rules apply.

From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 17, 2023

Those who violate the public charge standard can be denied the chance to become citizens.

From Washington Times ● May 17, 2023

The purpose to make elementary education a public charge developed tardily.

From Union and Democracy by Johnson, Allen