child support

noun

: payment for the support of the children of divorced or separated parents while the children are minors or as otherwise legally required compare alimony

Examples of child support in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Social Security benefits also receive substantial protections from most private creditors, though there are important exceptions for certain government debts, child support and other specific obligations. —Angelica Leicht, CBS News, 12 June 2026

According to court documents obtained by PEOPLE, the reality star, 41, has been ordered to pay $2,218 per month to Pittman in child support as part of their divorce agreement. —Kayla Grant, PEOPLE, 10 June 2026

Vacant positions slated for elimination include 10 probation officers, 15 correctional officers, four child support specialists and dozens of other jobs. —Daniel Lempres, Sacbee.com, 9 June 2026

The sector covers the county health department, social services and community resources, which include services such as the library and parks, and child support services. —Claire Wang, Oc Register, 8 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1901, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for child support

• heliport
• nonsupport
• reexport
• teleport
• ultrashort
• abort
• airport
• alport
• athwart
• carport
• comport
• consort

Kids Definition

child support

noun

: payment for the support of the children of divorced or separated parents while the children are minors or as otherwise legally required compare alimony

Legal Definition

child support

noun

: payment made for the support of the children of divorced or separated parents while the children are minors or until they reach an age set by the separation agreement or in a court order compare alimony

Note: Child support is usually paid by the parent who is without custody. In the case of joint custody, both parents usually pay child support.