domestic violence
noun
: violent or abusive behavior directed by one family or household member against another
a domestic violence hotline
He helped start … 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
In another disturbing trend, women are victims of domestic violence that spills into the workplace.—Sarah Henry
Cite this Entry
“Domestic violence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/domestic%20violence. Accessed 28 Oct. 2026.
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