Any nation that has the government "holding the hand" of its citizens by
levying lots of taxes, having trade protection, and having many economic regulations. It is used very pejoratively by people that believe in
freer markets, private institutions, and
tax cuts.
Person A: I
advocate for socialized
health care. It will
benefit us all.
Person B: Nah man, I don't want the U.S. to become a nanny state!