violation

noun

vi·​o·​la·​tion ˌvī-ə-ˈlā-shən 

: the act of violating : the state of being violated: such as

a

: infringement, transgression

specifically : an infringement of the rules in sports that is less serious than a foul and usually involves technicalities of play

b

: an act of irreverence or desecration : profanation

c

: disturbance, interruption

d

: rape entry 1 sense 1, ravishment

Synonyms of violation

• crime
• sin
• felony
• breach
• trespass

Examples of violation in a Sentence

a serious violation of the law

A second violation was called on the basketball player.

He was arrested for violation of his parole.

The group monitors human rights violations.

trying to prevent violation of human rights

Recent Examples on the Web

Its conflict of interest office, which did not return calls or emails about the matter, is responsible for reviewing these disclosures to ensure that there are no violations of government regulations or university policy. —Elizabeth B. Kim, Cincinnati Enquirer, 12 Nov. 2025

The complaint alleged a violation of departmental policy regarding the use of force. —Emerson Clarridge updated November 11, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 11 Nov. 2025

And while traffic violations haven’t been privatized, Dubai’s new traffic cameras are likely generating predictable incomes that would attract investors. —Mohammed Sergie, semafor.com, 10 Nov. 2025

Byrne sued the group, claiming that the name was a trademark violation. —Amanda Petrusich, New Yorker, 10 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing violation

• in violation of
• moving violation

Rhymes for violation

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation

Kids Definition

violation

noun

vi·​o·​la·​tion ˌvī-ə-ˈlā-shən 

: an act or an instance of violating : the state of being violated