(sometimes cap.)a program, usually one supported or subsidized by a charitable, social, or government agency, for delivering hot meals regularly to elderly, disabled, or convalescing persons who are housebound and cannot cook for themselves.
[1960-65]
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meals on wheels noun
A welfare service taking cooked, usu hot, meals to old people in need of such help
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Main Entry: ↑meal
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meals on wheels UK US noun [uncountable]
a service that brings cooked meals to the homes of people who are too old or ill to cook for themselves
Thesaurus: help with social problemshyponym
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meals on wheels,
a service that brings a hot meal daily to an elderly or disabled person in his home. It is usually a private service subsidized by the government.
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meals delivered to elderly people or invalids who are unable either to prepare meals or have meals otherwise provided
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a service that takes meals to old or sick people in their homes
Culture:
The meals on wheels service is often provided by various charities and service organizations.
Useful english dictionary. 2012.