violence

noun

vi·​o·​lence ˈvī-lən(t)s How to pronounce violence (audio)
ˈvī-ə-
1
a
: the use of physical force so as to injure, abuse, damage, or destroy
b
: an instance of violent treatment or procedure
2
: injury by or as if by distortion, infringement, or profanation : outrage
3
a
: intense, turbulent, or furious and often destructive action or force
the violence of the storm
b
: vehement feeling or expression : fervor
also : an instance of such action or feeling
c
: a clashing or jarring quality : discordance
4
: undue alteration (as of wording or sense in editing a text)

Examples of violence in a Sentence

They need to learn how to settle their arguments without resorting to violence. movies filled with sex and violence The violence of the storm caused great fear.
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.
Roy even linked the child tax credit to the border crisis — as if the people fleeing crushing poverty or cartel violence to seek asylum in America are more likely to make their desperate journeys because of a change in the tax code. Bridget Grumet, Austin American-Statesman, 22 Nov. 2024 Moss is far from alone in seeking salvation in displays of power or violence that call themselves care. Katy Waldman, The New Yorker, 21 Nov. 2024 In their current situation, the lack of space has resulted in daily problems and violence. Guy Davies, ABC News, 20 Nov. 2024 Johnson's statement came on Transgender Day of Remembrance, which is observed on Nov. 20 and honors transgender people who have died from violence. Melissa Quinn, CBS News, 20 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for violence 

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of violence was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near violence

Cite this Entry

“Violence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/violence. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

violence

noun
vi·​o·​lence ˈvī-ə-lən(t)s How to pronounce violence (audio)
1
: the use of force in a way that harms a person or property
2
: great force or energy especially of a destructive kind
the violence of the storm caused great fear

More from Merriam-Webster on violence

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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