1505 (implied in
socially), "characterized by friendliness or geniality," also "allied, associated," from M.Fr.
social (14c.), from L.
socialis "united, living with others," from
socius "companion," probably originally "follower," and related to
sequi "to follow" (cf. O.E.
secg, O.N.
seggr "companion," which seem to have been formed on the same notion; see
sequel). Meaning "living or liking to live with others, disposed to friendly intercourse" is attested from 1729. Meaning "pertaining to society as a natural condition of human life" first attested 1695, in Locke.
Social climber is from 1926;
social work is 1890;
social worker 1904.
Social drink(ing) first attested 1976.
Social studies as an inclusive term for history, geography, economics, etc., is attested from 1938.
Social security "system of state support for needy citizens" is attested from 1908.