sexual assault

[ sek-shoo-uhl uh-sawlt ]

noun

1. nonconsensual touching of one person for the sexual gratification of another, including rape, fondling, molestation, or other unwanted contact with the genitals, anus, buttocks, groin, or breasts of either party:

   The victim was intoxicated and incapable of giving consent, so any sex act will be treated as sexual assault.

Word History and Origins

Origin of sexual assault¹

First recorded in 1880–85

Example Sentences

In the abstract, does a ban sound better with an exception for sexual assault?

From Slate

One of Mohamed Al Fayed's brothers also abused women who worked at the Harrods department store, according to three ex-employees who have made allegations including sexual assault and trafficking to the BBC.

From BBC

During the investigation, detectives learned about three previous sexual assault investigations that had identified Woolfolk as a suspect.

From Los Angeles Times

Tupac was missing, however - he was in jail for sexual assault at the time.

From BBC

Some of the women he defrauded have told the BBC the trauma they suffered at his hands was similar to that felt by victims of sexual assault and domestic abuse.

From BBC

Related Words

• molestation
• rape
• violation