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

More than 40% of Black women will experience domestic violence in their lifetime and are three times more likely to die at the hands of an intimate partner than women of other racial groups, and often face systemic barriers when trying to access support. —Essence, 31 Oct. 2024

The referendum called for a 1% food and beverage tax at certain Miami Beach restaurants to fund services for those experiencing homelessness and domestic violence victims. —Martin Vassolo, Axios, 31 Oct. 2024

Jessica had left a domestic violence shelter a month before the hurricane. —Taylor Galgano, CNN, 31 Oct. 2024

Then came allegations of domestic violence and a custody battle. —Janine Rubenstein, People.com, 30 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1891, in the meaning defined above

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