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 city had previously — and seemingly inadvertently — tried to shut down the apartment complex in response to code violations by former landlord Yisroel Levovitz. — Dylan Lysen, Kansas City Star, 30 Aug. 2026 The agency has issued the company 38 violation notices for public nuisance. — Los Angeles Times, 30 Aug. 2026 Police said the man was wanted on a no-bail warrant for a probation violation. — Michael Sinkewicz, FOXNews.com, 29 Aug. 2026 Rodent droppings were found at one Frisco restaurant and critical violations at two others in the latest round of city health inspections, according to the inspection report. — Lillie Davidson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 29 Aug. 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 1 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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