harassment

[ huh-ras-muhnt, har-uhs-muhnt ]

noun

1. an act or instance of harassing; torment, vexation, or intimidation:

   daily harassment by bullies at school;

   the harassments of daily life.

2. the condition or fact of being harassed:

   the stress of harassment and discrimination.

Pronunciation Note

See harass.

Other Words From

• over·harass·ment noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of harassment¹

First recorded in 1750–55; harass + -ment

Example Sentences

In particular, Mr Rangarajan said he was concerned at unacceptable levels of intimidation and harassment directed at women and candidates from ethnic minority backgrounds.

From BBC

Kristine Klotz alleges she was demoted after calling out harassment by a male supervisor.

From Los Angeles Times

It's no wonder, when you consider that women are more likely to report ugly or even scary experiences while dating, such as harassment or unwanted touching.

From Salon

She experienced daily sexual harassment and assault from him.

From BBC

"I think the motivation for him was the thrill of the harassment, the control he had over me. He got a fix off the idea he was forcing women to do things."

From BBC

Related Words

• molestation
• persecution
• provocation