violence
UK: ˈvaɪələns | US: ˈvaɪələns
n. behavior involving physical force intended to hurt, damage, or kill someone or something
n. strength of emotion or an unpleasant or destructive natural force
violence = viol<force> + ence<noun suffix>
- viol (from Latin violentus, meaning "vehement, forcible")
- ence (noun-forming suffix indicating state or quality, from Latin -entia)
Etymology Origin:
The word "violence" traces back to Latin violentus (vehement, forcible), derived from vis (force, strength). Over time, it evolved through Old French violence to Middle English, retaining its core meaning of uncontrolled physical force. The suffix -ence solidifies its noun form, emphasizing the state or quality of being forceful or destructive. The word's logic reflects a progression from raw power (vis) to its unrestrained application (violentus).
The protest escalated into violence when the crowd clashed with police.
Domestic violence is a serious issue that affects millions worldwide.
The violence of the storm destroyed several coastal villages.
His speech condemned the violence but failed to propose solutions.
The film depicts graphic violence, which may disturb some viewers.