Violation

/vaɪəˈleɪʃən/

Meaning & Definition

noun
the act of breaking or failing to comply with a rule or law
The company's violation of safety regulations led to a fine.
an infringement or breach of a right or obligation
The court ruled that there was a violation of the plaintiff's civil rights.
a failure to adhere to a standard or code of conduct
His violation of the team's code of conduct resulted in a suspension.
an act of desecration or profanation, especially in a religious context
The vandalism of the church was considered a violation of sacred space.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin word 'violationem', meaning 'to break' or 'to violate'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

violation of trust
A breach of confidence or faith in someone.
violation of rights
An infringement on an individual's legal or moral rights.
net violation
A rule or law broken in the context of internet usage.

Related Words

breach
The act of breaking or failing to observe a law, agreement, or code of conduct.
infringement
The action of breaking the terms of a law, agreement, or right.
transgression
An act that goes against a law, rule, or code of conduct; an offense.

Slang Meanings

A slip-up or mistake that breaks a rule.
He got a 'violation' for overstaying in the parking lot.
A direct encounter with the law or some authority over a breach.
Getting a violation from the cops can ruin your night.