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

In his original suit, Musk alleged Grimes was attempting to move proceedings to California to get higher child support payments. —Anna Kaufman, USA TODAY, 26 Nov. 2024

Lenny was ordered to pay Lisa $15,000 a month in child support for their two kids — son Logan, 8, and daughter Elle, 3 — and $10,000 per month for Elle once Logan turns 18. —Catherine Santino, People.com, 25 Nov. 2024

In Sonoma County, California, 62% of voters approved a quarter-cent sales tax increase, which is estimated to generate $30 million annually for child support programs. —Alexandra Byrne, NBC News, 24 Nov. 2024

Court records show Gonzales previously owed thousands in unpaid child support. —Ray Stern, The Arizona Republic, 16 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1901, in the meaning defined above

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.