child support

noun

: payment for the support of the children of divorced or separated parents while the children are minors or as otherwise legally required compare alimony

Examples of child support in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The former couple is also settling child support matters involving their 10-year-old daughter, Everly. —Escher Walcott, Peoplemag, 5 May 2024

Rodriguez spent over 20 years as a special investigator in the Attorney General’s child support enforcement division. —Elizabeth Campbell, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 5 May 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1901, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

child support

noun

: payment for the support of the children of divorced or separated parents while the children are minors or as otherwise legally required compare alimony

Legal Definition

child support

noun

: payment made for the support of the children of divorced or separated parents while the children are minors or until they reach an age set by the separation agreement or in a court order compare alimony

Note: Child support is usually paid by the parent who is without custody. In the case of joint custody, both parents usually pay child support.