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

Swift said she’s long been involved in advocacy work, both personally and professionally, focused on foster youth, victims of domestic violence and young people who struggle with life after high school graduation. —Kaitlyn Schallhorn, Oc Register, 7 May 2025

Most domestic violence cases come with protection orders that require defendants to surrender their firearms. —Shira Moolten, Sun Sentinel, 7 May 2025

For Lohan, the organization's focus on domestic violence hit home. —Ilana Kaplan, People.com, 6 May 2025

Steiner said nothing in her life prepared her for domestic violence. —Elizabeth Marie Himchak, San Diego Union-Tribune, 6 May 2025

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