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.

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

Crucially, most seniors will continue to receive Social Security payments.

From Salon

Social Security remains a lightning rod in American politics, with debates over solvency, benefits and generational fairness heating up ahead of the midterms.

From Salon

Social Security Administration spokesman Barton Mackey said the agency is working on plans to “propose improvements to the disability adjudication process to ensure our disability program remains current and can be more efficiently administered.”

From Salon

Eventually, he was released after the agents verified his Social Security number.

From Slate

Social Security and other key benefits will continue to be paid.

From Los Angeles Times