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

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

The overall social security bill is forecast to rise to £9.2bn by then.

From BBC • Mar. 19, 2026

The regularisation, he adds, "will allow me to work and contribute to the social security system."

From BBC • Mar. 8, 2026

Middle-aged divorcées are looking for a fresh start and Americans on disability or social security are trying to stretch their benefits.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 26, 2026

Dill, fortunately and unfortunately, knew all of his family’s relevant financial information, down to his mom’s social security number.

From "The Serpent King" by Jeff Zentner