violation

noun

vi·​o·​la·​tion ˌvī-ə-ˈlā-shən 

: 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

c

: disturbance, interruption

d

: rape entry 1 sense 1, ravishment

Synonyms

• breach
• crime
• debt
• error
• lawbreaking
• malefaction
• misdeed
• misdoing
• offense
• offence
• sin
• transgression
• trespass
• wrongdoing

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

For years, Austin schools had struggled to clear thousands of overdue requests from families that students get evaluated for special education services, which is a law violation. —Keri Heath, Austin American-Statesman, 15 Dec. 2024

Even as the Supreme Court has narrowed the pathways for victims of federal agents' constitutional violations to obtain relief, victims may demand compensation from state and local police who directly violate civil rights or conspire to do so. —Stephan Pechdimaldji, Newsweek, 13 Dec. 2024

To Look Out For The challenge lies in ensuring these outputs are accurate, unbiased and safe to avoid compliance violations and damaging relationships. —Hemant Madaan, Forbes, 13 Dec. 2024

Four Marine League coaches decided to forfeit games rather than play Narbonne, alleging rule violations. —Eric Sondheimer, Los Angeles Times, 13 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing violation

• in violation of
• moving violation

Kids Definition

violation

noun

vi·​o·​la·​tion ˌvī-ə-ˈlā-shən 

: an act or an instance of violating : the state of being violated