means-tested
|means/tested|
/ˈmiːnz ˌtɛstɪd/
financial eligibility
Etymology
'means-tested' originates from the concept of 'means test,' where 'means' refers to financial resources and 'test' refers to an assessment or evaluation.
'Means test' was used in the early 20th century to determine eligibility for certain benefits, evolving into the adjective 'means-tested' to describe such programs.
Initially, it meant 'evaluating financial resources,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'eligibility based on financial need.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
referring to a program or benefit that is available only to individuals or families whose income and assets fall below a certain level.
The government provides means-tested benefits to support low-income families.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/20 15:35