First Known Use: before 12th century
Dictionary
1dole
noun \ˈdōl\
Definition of DOLE
1
archaic : one's allotted share, portion, or destiny
2
a (1) : a giving or distribution of food, money, or clothing to the needy (2) : a grant of government funds to the unemployed b : something distributed at intervals to the needy; also : handout 1 c : something portioned out bit by bit
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of DOLE
Middle English, from Old English dāl portion — more at deal
2dole
verb
doleddol·ing
Definition of DOLE
transitive verb
: to give or distribute as a charity —usually used with out
See dole defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of DOLE
15th century
3dole
noun
Definition of DOLE
archaicOrigin of DOLE
Middle English dol, from Anglo-French duel, dol, from Late Latin dolus, alteration of Latin dolor
First Known Use: 13th century
Dole
biographical name \ˈdōl\
Definition of DOLE
Bob 1923– Robert Joseph Dole Am. polit.
Dole
biographical name
Definition of DOLE
Sanford Ballard 1844–1926 Am. jurist; pres. (1894–1900) & gov. (1900–03) of Hawaii
DOLE Defined for Kids
1dole
noun \ˈdōl\
Definition of DOLE for Kids
1
: an act of giving out food, clothing, or money to the needy
2
: something given out to the needy especially at regular times
2dole
verb
doleddol·ing
Definition of DOLE for Kids
: to give out <Food was doled out to the poor.>
Learn More About DOLE
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: dole chaserPrevious Word in the Dictionary: doldrumsAll Words Near: dole
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up dole? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).