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

Affected individuals must work with the state child support enforcement agency where the debt is owed. —Sarah Rumpf-Whitten, FOXNews.com, 8 May 2026

In some arguments, Uthmeier has suggested that people who donate their sperm, eggs or embryos would need to maintain parental rights and obligations through avenues like time-sharing or child support, Jay said. —Romy Ellenbogen, Miami Herald, 8 May 2026

Zero child support of any kind. —Natalia Senanayake, PEOPLE, 4 May 2026

However, certain debts — like unpaid taxes, child support or student loans — can result in higher percentages. —Angelica Leicht, CBS News, 1 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1901, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for child support

• heliport
• nonsupport
• reexport
• teleport
• ultrashort
• abort
• airport
• alport
• athwart
• carport
• comport
• consort

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.