Meaning & Definition of word "Violate"

Violate

/ˈvaɪəleɪt/

verb:

  • 1. to break or infringe upon a law, rule, or agreement.
    • Example: He was fined for violating the city's noise ordinances.
  • 2. to disturb or desecrate something sacred or holy.
    • Example: The graffiti on the church's wall was seen as a way to violate a place of worship.
  • 3. to disregard or go against moral or ethical standards.
    • Example: She felt that his actions violated the trust they had built over the years.
  • 4. to treat someone in a way that is intrusive or degrading.
    • Example: The survivor spoke out about how the attack violated her sense of safety.
  • 5. to fail to respect the rights or boundaries of others.
    • Example: Using someone else's personal information without permission is a clear way to violate their privacy.

Etymology

Late Middle English: via Latin violat- from the verb violare, from viola ‘violet’.

Common Phrases and Expressions

violate someone's rights:

to act in a way that infringes upon another person's legal entitlements.

violate the law:

to engage in behavior that is against established legal rules.

violate an agreement:

to fail to uphold the terms and conditions of a contract.

Related Words

breach:

the act of breaking a law, promise, or agreement.

infringement:

the action of violating a law or right.

assault:

a physical attack or a threat of attack.

Slang Meanings of violate

Meaning: to disregard someone's consent

Example Sentence: He totally violated the vibe by showing up uninvited.

Meaning: to break personal boundaries

Example Sentence: She felt he was violating her space when he stood too close.