domestic violence

noun

: violent or abusive behavior directed by one family or household member against another
He helped start Austin's Children's Advocacy Center, which works with abused kids, and 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
a domestic violence hotline
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 The routine opened with a domestic violence joke and leaned heavily on Rife detailing his preferences in women as a comedic crutch. Larisha Paul, Rolling Stone, 18 July 2024 That’s critical in his highly difficult assignment, overseeing domestic violence cases. Orlando Sentinel Editorial Board, Orlando Sentinel, 15 July 2024 Kidwell had an active domestic violence protection order against Gentry and tried to call 911 when Gentry allegedly shot her with a handgun. Quinlan Bentley, The Enquirer, 13 July 2024 Last month, the 53-year-old made headlines for sharing his belief that if Chris Brown never had a domestic violence case, he’d be anointed as Michael Jackson’s successor. Amber Corrine, VIBE.com, 12 July 2024 See all Example Sentences for domestic violence 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'domestic violence.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1891, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of domestic violence was in 1891

Dictionary Entries Near domestic violence

Cite this Entry

“Domestic violence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/domestic%20violence. Accessed 27 Jul. 2024.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on domestic violence

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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