violence

[ vahy-uh-luhns ]

noun

1. swift and intense force:

   the violence of a storm.

   Synonyms: fury, impact, power, might

2. rough or injurious physical force, action, or treatment:

   to die by violence.

3. an unjust or unwarranted exertion of force or power, as against rights or laws:

   to take over a government by violence.

4. a violent act or proceeding.
5. rough or immoderate vehemence, as of feeling or language:

   the violence of his hatred.

6. damage through distortion or unwarranted alteration:

   to do editorial violence to a text.

violence

/ ˈvaɪələns /

noun

1. the exercise or an instance of physical force, usually effecting or intended to effect injuries, destruction, etc
2. powerful, untamed, or devastating force

   the violence of the sea

3. great strength of feeling, as in language, etc; fervour
4. an unjust, unwarranted, or unlawful display of force, esp such as tends to overawe or intimidate
5. do violence to
   1. to inflict harm upon; damage or violate

      they did violence to the prisoners

   2. to distort or twist the sense or intention of

      the reporters did violence to my speech

Other Words From

• anti·vio·lence adjective
• counter·vio·lence noun
• self-vio·lence noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of violence¹

First recorded in 1250–1300; Middle English, from Anglo-French, Old French, from Latin violentia; violent, -ence

Word History and Origins

Origin of violence¹

C13: via Old French from Latin violentia impetuosity, from violentus violent

Example Sentences

"Ending violence against women and girls is very much in the forefront of policing at the moment. This case highlights that because all our victims are girls."

From BBC

"Despite being a crime show, it never showed gruesome violence, sexual crimes, foul language or anything that was not suitable for family viewing."

From BBC

He was charged with interference with commerce by robbery and use of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.

From Los Angeles Times

While there is an outburst of violence, it never reaches the operatic height one might be expecting — or hoping for.

From Los Angeles Times

"We are cracking down on violence against women and creating safer streets," she said.

From BBC

Related Words

• assault
• attack
• bloodshed
• brutality
• clash
• confusion
• cruelty
• disorder
• disturbance
• fighting
• rampage
• struggle
• terrorism