child abuse

American  

noun

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

---

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

---

Etymology

Origin of child abuse

First recorded in 1970–75

Example Sentences

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

Still, Polis has urged the federal government to let states ensure that money isn’t going to unsafe schools or people convicted of child abuse.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 4, 2026

The process was thrown into chaos when the leading candidate ministers hoped to appoint, former Northern Ireland police officer and child abuse expert Jim Gamble, said he was not interested in the job.

From BBC • Oct. 23, 2025

The change, however, doesn't compel the disclosure of all information relating to child abuse, only its disclosure in specific cases when formally requested by a legitimate authority.

From BBC • May 6, 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