noun
Uncommon
Medicaid
MEH-dih-kayd
Medicaid (noun) means a US government program that provides health coverage to people with low incomes. Example: “Her family qualified for Medicaid after her husband lost his job.”
noun
1
A US government program that provides health coverage to people with low incomes.
"Her family qualified for Medicaid after her husband lost his job."
How to use Medicaid
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAmerican public health insurance for people who can't otherwise afford medical care.
UK vs US
US-specific; the UK equivalent concept is covered by the NHS rather than a means-tested insurance program.
Easily confused with
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Her family qualified for _____ after her husband lost his job.
Etymology
A blend of "medical" and "aid," coined when the US program was created in 1965.
Class of 1965
Medicaid joined the language around 1965.
See the full Class of 1965 →
Rhymes for Medicaid
See all rhymes for Medicaid →Frequently asked questions
What does “Medicaid” mean?
The word “Medicaid” means a US government program that provides health coverage to people with low incomes. In plain terms, american public health insurance for people who can't otherwise afford medical care.
How do you pronounce “Medicaid”?
“Medicaid” is pronounced MEH-dih-kayd (/ˈmɛdɪˌkeɪd/ in IPA).
How do you use “Medicaid” in a sentence?
Here is “Medicaid” used in a sentence: “Her family qualified for Medicaid after her husband lost his job.”
What part of speech is “Medicaid”?
“Medicaid” is a noun.
Where does the word “Medicaid” come from?
The word “Medicaid” dates back to around 1965. A blend of "medical" and "aid," coined when the US program was created in 1965.
Is “Medicaid” a common word?
“Medicaid” is an uncommon word in modern English.
What is the difference between Medicaid and Medicare?
Medicaid is a US government program that provides health coverage to people with low incomes, and eligibility is largely based on financial need. Medicare, by contrast, is primarily aimed at people aged 65 and older, or those with certain disabilities, regardless of income.
Who qualifies for Medicaid?
Medicaid eligibility is generally based on having a low income, though specific income limits and additional requirements vary depending on the state administering the program. It is designed to provide health coverage to people who could not otherwise afford it.
Is Medicaid free health insurance?
Medicaid provides health coverage to eligible low-income individuals, and for most enrollees there is little to no cost for premiums, though some states may charge small copayments. The program is funded by the government rather than through employer or private insurance premiums.
