battered woman

American  

noun

1. battered woman syndromebattered woman syndrome

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Etymology

Origin of battered woman

First recorded in 1970–75

Example Sentences

Since her 1997 debut, Jones has crafted indelible narratives from the point of view of, among others, a battered woman who contemplates turning a gun on her abuser and of a coal miner trapped underground while writing what would prove to be his last letter to his wife.

From New York Times

I think of those who abhor this regime as akin to a battered woman – she is in most danger when she leaves her abuser, and the abuse itself makes her lose confidence in herself and the possibility of a life that could be different.

From The Guardian

Prosecuting Attorney Ron Holliday said at trial that it was a “disgrace” that Angela Mason used the battered woman defense.

From Washington Times

"I don’t understand the point of this. Is she trying to be a battered woman?" questioned a fan.

From Fox News

“My client did not murder her husband in cold blood. Not only is this a lie, but it perpetuates the battered woman syndrome and makes victims scared to come forward. Donna Osborn, as I will prove, defended herself. This is a self-defense case.”

From Washington Times