The word "poor rates" is spelled as /pʊər reɪts/, where the first syllable is pronounced as "poor" with the vowel sound of "oo" as in "book," and the second syllable is pronounced as "rates" with the vowel sound of "ay" as in "fate." This term refers to a historical levy on property owners to provide relief for the poor, a practice common in Britain and other countries in the past. The spelling of this word reflects the standard English pronunciation of the two separate words that compose it.
Poor rates refer to a system of taxation established by local authorities in order to provide financial support to the poor and destitute within a community. Also known as poor relief or the poor law rate, it is a historically significant term primarily used in the context of the United Kingdom.
The poor rates were introduced in the 16th century to ensure that individuals living in poverty had access to basic necessities such as food, clothing, and shelter. The rates were collected through a local tax levied on property owners, who were required to contribute a proportionate amount based on the value of their land or buildings. The funds accumulated were then utilized to administer welfare programs and offer aid to those in need.
The poor rates were typically managed by overseers of the poor, appointed by the local parish or township. These overseers were responsible for assessing the needs of the poor and distributing funds accordingly, often in the form of direct relief or workhouses.
Over time, the poor rates underwent various reforms and revisions to address societal changes and evolving concepts of poverty. The system played a pivotal role in shaping the welfare state and the protection of vulnerable individuals throughout British history.
In summary, poor rates denote a historical mechanism of taxation aimed at providing assistance to the impoverished and vulnerable members of society, ensuring their basic needs were met and alleviating the impacts of poverty.
The money raised by law for the support of the poor.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "poor rates" has its etymology rooted in the English language.
The term "poor" comes from the Old French word "povre" meaning "poor, of little worth", which in turn originated from the Latin "pauper" meaning "poor". "Pauper" also gave rise to similar words in other Romance languages, such as "pobre" in Spanish and Portuguese, and "pauvre" in French.
The word "rate" in this context refers to a tax or levy imposed on property holders for the purpose of funding relief or support for the poor. The term "rate" can be traced back to the Latin word "rata" meaning "fixed portion or share". Over time, it evolved to refer specifically to the tax itself.