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.
The couple initially agreed to joint custody when finalizing their divorce in May 2025, and per documents reviewed by the outlet, agreed that Jackson would pay $2,787 in monthly child support. — Shania Russell, Entertainment Weekly, 29 June 2026 White has a controversial past, including failure to pay child support, a charge White denies, and making a number of derogatory social media comments. — Wcco Staff, CBS News, 26 June 2026 News of the separation broke in September, with Kidman filing for divorce by month’s end and the pair reportedly planning on co-parenting classes and submitting a child support worksheet. — Jami Ganz, New York Daily News, 22 June 2026 Lenny was ordered to pay Lisa $15,000 per month in child support until Logan turns 18. — Brianne Tracy, PEOPLE, 22 June 2026 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

Rhymes for child support

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Browse Nearby Words

childs
child support
child welfare
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Cite this Entry

“Child support.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/child%20support. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.

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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.

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