better-off
UK[ˌbetər ˈɒf]US[ˌbetər ˈɔːf]
adj
Having more money or being in a more favorable situation than before or than others.
Etymology
The compound 'better-off' is a relatively modern English formation, emerging in the 19th century. It is built upon the Germanic comparative adverb 'better', which itself derives from the Proto-Germanic root batizô, related to the concept of improvement or superiority. Combined with the adverbial particle 'off', which in this context denotes a state or condition (as seen in phrases like 'well-off' or 'badly-off'), the term literally describes being in a 'better condition'. The logic of the word is transparent, directly comparing one's financial or general circumstances to a previous state or to others, with the '-off' suffix solidifying its role as a fixed adjectival phrase describing a state of being.
Analysis
The word is a compound adjective formed from the comparative adverb 'better' and the adverb/preposition 'off'. 'Better' originates from Old English 'betera', of Germanic origin. 'Off' originates from Old English 'of', of Germanic origin.
Examples
The new policy is designed to make low-income families better-off.
After receiving the promotion, she was considerably better-off financially.
They are better-off living in the countryside than in the expensive city.