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

In exchange, prosecutors dismissed two counts of domestic violence in the presence of a child and obstruction of justice, per KSL. — Samantha Stutsman, PEOPLE, 26 Sep. 2026

In 2024, Pritzker created the position of executive director and appointed Montgomery to the post with a mandate to expand domestic violence training for board members. — Olivia Olander, Chicago Tribune, 25 Sep. 2026

Paige DeSorbo was honored with the Variety Courage Award, presented by Purina, for using her platform to advocate for survivors of domestic violence. — Tanya Fedak, Variety, 24 Sep. 2026

Malaysia’s Moms Village Asia works with survivors of domestic violence to create sustainable corporate-gifting products, turning craft skills into income and a path back to independence. — Denni Hu, Footwear News, 24 Sep. 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