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.
Eliminate all doubt and all potential for committing a violation by using a side-by-side or over/under double barrel. — Bryan Hendricks, Arkansas Online, 6 Sep. 2026 Michael Busch followed with a strikeout on a pitch-clock violation for calling time a second time in the at-bat, then Alex Bregman hit into an inning-ending double play on the next pitch. — Meghan Montemurro, Chicago Tribune, 6 Sep. 2026 The decision is based on the nature of the violations, the establishment’s history and other factors. — Lillie Davidson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 6 Sep. 2026 The Hartford Courant obtained complaints from nurses at Danbury Hospital alleging violations of the hospital staffing law. — Livi Stanford, Hartford Courant, 6 Sep. 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 7 Sep. 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
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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