domestic violence

noun

: violent or abusive behavior directed by one family or household member against another

a domestic violence hotline

He helped start … a family-justice division of the D.A.'s office, which prosecutes those accused of domestic violence and helps their families get back to normal.

—John Cloud

In another disturbing trend, women are victims of domestic violence that spills into the workplace.

—Sarah Henry

Examples of domestic violence in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Michael was previously charged with domestic violence after he was accused of striking Kate in 2011. —Madison E. Goldberg, PEOPLE, 17 Apr. 2026

This includes visas for human trafficking and domestic violence victims and juveniles, as well as several work permits. —Ximena Bustillo, NPR, 17 Apr. 2026

Mills also received one year in prison for second-offense domestic violence. —Joseph Buczek, CBS News, 16 Apr. 2026

In February 2023, Paul was arrested on misdemeanor charges of assault, criminal mischief, and commission of domestic violence in the presence of a child, according to police. —Kimi Robinson, USA Today, 16 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1891, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for domestic violence

• nonviolence

Kids Definition

domestic violence

noun

: the inflicting of physical harm by one family or household member on another

Legal Definition

domestic violence

noun

domestic vi·​o·​lence

: violence committed by one family or household member against another see also restraining order at order