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.