welloff

Well-off is an English adjective describing a person or household that has a comfortable level of income and assets, providing financial security and discretionary spending beyond basic needs. The term signals a standard of living that is higher than average but not necessarily wealthy or extravagant. Because it is relative, its precise meaning can vary by country, community, and context, and it is commonly used in discussions of social class, living standards, and economic well-being.

Form and usage: The standard spelling is well-off with a hyphen; some writers, especially in informal contexts, write it as welloff. Predicative uses such as "they are well off" do not require a hyphen, while attributive uses such as "a well-off family" do. It is softer or more nuanced than terms like wealthy or affluent, indicating financial security without implying extreme riches.

Etymology: The expression combines well, indicating a favorable condition, with off, referring to a state or position. It is attested in English from the 19th century onward and remains common in both American and British English.

See also: Affluence; Wealth; Financial security; Middle class; Standard of living.