Violate
/ˈvaɪ.ə.leɪt/noun
To break or infringe upon a law, rule, or code of conduct.
Did you know?The word 'violate' comes from the Latin 'violare', which means 'to injure' or 'to profane', linking it to ancient sacred rituals and their transgressions.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*weh₁l-
“to turn or twist, indicating a change in state.”
Latin
Latin
violare
“to use force against, to injure, or to profane, often in a sacrilegious context.”
Old French
Old French
violier
“to violate, break a law or sacred vow.”
Middle English
Middle English
violaten
“to infringe upon rights or laws.”
Modern English
English
violate
“to breach or break a law, often implying moral or ethical wrongdoing.”