child support

noun

: payment for the support of the children of divorced or separated parents while the children are minors or as otherwise legally required compare alimony

Examples of child support in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
If child support and alimony are at play, the most important first step is to figure out what all the costs associated with household dependents are. Cicely Jones, Forbes.com, 30 May 2025 Lawmakers recently passed a bill requiring child support payments from the day of conception. Katrina Michalak, Kansas City Star, 28 May 2025 That led to Jackson finding out about his ex-partner’s child support pursuit while in his new state—and at his place of work. Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 28 May 2025 Ziegler says the debate could open up an array of new legal questions for areas like in-vitro fertilization, the census or child support. Sam Gringlas, NPR, 21 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for child support

Word History

First Known Use

1901, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of child support was in 1901

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Child support.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/child%20support. Accessed 4 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

child support

noun
: payment for the support of the children of divorced or separated parents while the children are minors or as otherwise legally required compare alimony

Legal Definition

child support

noun
: payment made for the support of the children of divorced or separated parents while the children are minors or until they reach an age set by the separation agreement or in a court order compare alimony

Note: Child support is usually paid by the parent who is without custody. In the case of joint custody, both parents usually pay child support.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!