violation

noun

vi·​o·​la·​tion ˌvī-ə-ˈlā-shən How to pronounce violation (audio)
: 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

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The federal government is also reshaping its approach to investigating civil rights violations, taking a stance that DEI programs have discriminated against white and Asian students. Rory Linnane, jsonline.com, 3 Sep. 2025 Under the new process, property owners will still receive a notice when a violation occurs, but if the issue is not corrected within seven days, the Parks and Recreation Department will step in to mow or clean the property, the release states. Nwa Democrat-Gazette, Arkansas Online, 3 Sep. 2025 Around that time, The StrEatery, a restaurant located in the Beechmont neighborhood, opened a pop-up shelter for individuals in need, but it was ordered to close due to permitting violations, The Courier Journal reported. Killian Baarlaer, The Courier-Journal, 3 Sep. 2025 Most restaurants correct violations at the time of the original inspection or shortly thereafter. Eleanor Nash, Kansas City Star, 2 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for violation

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of violation was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Violation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/violation. Accessed 10 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

violation

noun
vi·​o·​la·​tion ˌvī-ə-ˈlā-shən How to pronounce violation (audio)
: an act or an instance of violating : the state of being violated

More from Merriam-Webster on violation

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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