child abuse

American  

noun

1. mistreatment of a child by a parent or guardian, including neglect, beating, and sexual molestation.

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child abuse British  

noun

1. physical, sexual, or emotional ill-treatment or neglect of a child, esp by those responsible for its welfare See also nonaccidental injury

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Etymology

Origin of child abuse

First recorded in 1970–75

Example Sentences

John Hamilton, who worked as a detective constable in Northumbria Police's child abuse and sexual offences unit, was assigned to a case involving the girl.

From BBC • Apr. 10, 2026

Although Hatami understands the reasoning behind SB 1437, he believes the law should be amended to exempt child abuse cases.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 31, 2026

Even when courts determine no child abuse has occurred, children are being removed from homes through networks of runaway shelters and nonprofits.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 27, 2026

Sheriff’s deputies responded to Minaj’s home in June 2023 following a false report of child abuse and, a month later, to a false report of a shooting, according to TMZ.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 10, 2025

In fact, nationwide, most women on death row are awaiting execution for a family crime involving an allegation of child abuse or domestic violence involving a male partner.

From "Just Mercy" by Bryan Stevenson