rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryviolentHarmful physical force
adjective

violent

VIE-uh-lunt/ˈvaɪələnt/

Using or involving destructive force.

The violent blow drives the chair into the empty wooden door.

An angry adult swings a chair against an empty wooden door, clear damaging force, no injured person.
Etymology
violentLatinviolent, forceful

Latin violentus is related to violare, 'to treat with violence, outrage, dishonor.' The selected meaning preserves the physical side of that connection: force used to injure or damage.

In context

Classified Diaries46:08
injuries consistent with a violent physical assault.
Most Dangerous Landlord-Tenant Disputes That Escalated Into Murder

More examples

  • The protest turns violent when people begin smashing windows.
  • She refuses to return to her violent partner.
  • Violent winds tear the roof off the barn.

Forms

violent · more violent · most violent

violence noun — Physical force that harms people or property.

violently adverb — With destructive or harmful physical force.

Similar words

brutal
Emphasizes cruelty and savagery, especially toward other people.
destructive
Emphasizes damage caused, whether or not physical force is involved.