violation

noun

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

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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 department revised its policy earlier this year to restrict pursuits for minor traffic violations and city ordinance offenses. — Greg Wehner, FOXNews.com, 24 Oct. 2026 The coaster’s most recent inspection, on March 16, reported no violations, deficiencies, citations or red tags, according to King. — Alaa Elassar, CNN Money, 24 Oct. 2026 Trade unions criticized the bans, calling them violations of freedom of expression, which is protected by the constitution. — ABC News, 24 Oct. 2026 Trade unions have criticized the bans, calling them violations of freedom of expression, which is protected by the constitution. — Richard Engel, NBC news, 24 Oct. 2026 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

Phrases Containing violation

Rhymes for violation

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Browse Nearby Words

violater
violation
violational
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Cite this Entry

“Violation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/violation. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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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
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