dole
n. uncountablen. money that the government gives to people who do not have a job. It is a casual way to talk about unemployment benefits.
n. financial assistance provided by the state to individuals who are unemployed. Often used in the phrase 'on the dole' to describe the status of receiving such benefits.
He has been on the dole for six months.
After the local factory closed down, many families in the village had to rely on the dole to pay their bills.
The politician argued that increasing the dole would provide a necessary safety net, while critics claimed it might discourage people from seeking immediate employment.
Usage
Commonly used with the definite article in the fixed expression 'on the dole'.
Last updated May 6, 2026