Violate

Definition

To break or fail to comply with a rule, agreement, or boundary.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈvaɪəˌleɪt/
• Respelling: VYE-uh-layt

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈvaɪəleɪt/
• Respelling: VYE-uh-layt

In both American and British English, "violate" is pronounced with the stress on the first syllable. It features a long "y" sound as in "my" in the first syllable, followed by a short "uh" sound and ending with "layt." The pronunciation is essentially the same in both versions of English.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin word "violatus", the past participle of "violare" meaning 'to treat with violence, violate'. The term has roots in "vis" which means 'force'.

Derivatives

• Violator
• Violation
• Violative
• Violably
• Reviolate

Synonyms

• Breach
• Infringe
• Transgress

Antonyms

• Respect
• Observe
• Uphold

Usage

• "The company was found to violate environmental regulations."
• "Invading one's privacy is seen as violating their rights."

Related Terms

• Offense
• Breach
• Infraction
• Contravene
• Disregard

Detailed Definition

Verb

• Break a Rule or Agreement: To act against or fail to adhere to a rule, law, or agreement.
• Example: "They violate the terms of the contract by not delivering on time."

• Desecrate or Profane: To treat something sacred with disrespect or irreverence.
• Example: "Many felt the artwork served to violate the sanctity of the church."

• Infringe Upon Rights: To interfere with or encroach upon (someone's rights, privacy, etc.) in an undesirable manner.
• Example: "Cyber attackers often attempt to violate individuals' personal data."