battered woman syndrome

[ bat-erd woom-uhn sin-drohm ]

noun

1. the array of physical and psychological injuries exhibited by women battered women, or battered wivesbattered womanbattered wife who have been beaten repeatedly or otherwise abused by their partners or spouses.

Word History and Origins

Origin of battered woman syndrome¹

First recorded in 1975–80

Example Sentences

April’s defense attorney presented the idea of “Battered Woman Syndrome,” but it was a relatively untested defense.

From Slate

Known as battered woman syndrome, the condition can lead to feelings of helplessness or fear, and escalated violence.

From Washington Times

"We needed 'influencers' such as Tina Turner to speak out about domestic violence, so that my work on battered woman syndrome was introduced in the courts, and juries began to believe women acted to protect themselves and their children."

From BBC

Her appeal was among the first by someone with battered woman syndrome, and her case has been studied by academics.

From Seattle Times

The judge refused to allow expert testimony on battered woman syndrome, a psychological condition that can develop among victims of domestic violence.

From Seattle Times