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

Only the homeless, domestic violence victims, military veterans and those on the brink of housing insecurity are able to use these services. —Briah Lumpkins, Charlotte Observer, 3 Apr. 2025

The measure, also called SAPA, purported to invalidate federal gun laws, including those covering weapons registration and tracking, and possession of firearms by some domestic violence offenders. —Jonathan Shorman, Kansas City Star, 2 Apr. 2025

Legal Learning Workshop: Domestic Violence Protections: An informative session on domestic violence explaining your legal rights, resources and how to find support. —Joe Rassel, The Orlando Sentinel, 2 Apr. 2025

The Illinois Coalition Against Domestic Violence reported a 110% increase in deaths caused by domestic violence across Illinois from 2022 to 2023. —The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 2 Apr. 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