The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

Dole \Dole\, n. [AS. d[=a]l portion; same word as d[=ae]l. See
   Deal.]
   1. Distribution; dealing; apportionment.
      [1913 Webster]

            At her general dole,
            Each receives his ancient soul.       -- Cleveland.
      [1913 Webster]

   2. That which is dealt out; a part, share, or portion also, a
      scanty share or allowance.
      [1913 Webster]

   3. Alms; charitable gratuity or portion.
      [1913 Webster]

            So sure the dole, so ready at their call,
            They stood prepared to see the manna fall. --Dryden.
      [1913 Webster]

            Heaven has in store a precious dole.  --Keble.
      [1913 Webster]

   4. A boundary; a landmark. --Halliwell.
      [1913 Webster]

   5. A void space left in tillage. --[Prov. Eng.]
      [1913 Webster]

   Dole beer, beer bestowed as alms. [Obs.]

   Dole bread, bread bestowed as alms. [Obs.]

   Dole meadow, a meadow in which several persons have a
      common right or share.

   on the dole, receiving financial assistance from a
      governmental agency, such as a welfare agency; as, after
      his unemployment benefits ran out, his family was on the
      dole for a year.
      [1913 Webster +PJC]