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harassment

noun

/ˈhærəsmənt/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of harassment

The act of persistently or repeatedly subjecting someone to unwanted, intrusive, or intimidating behavior, typically with the intention of causing distress, fear, or harm.
"The victim sought legal action to stop the harassment from her ex-partner."

Detailed meaning of harassment

Harassment can take various forms, including verbal, physical, or electronic means, and often involves actions that violate the boundaries, rights, or well-being of an individual. It encompasses unwelcome advances, threats, insults, stalking, bullying, or any other conduct that creates a hostile or intimidating environment. Harassment can occur in various settings, such as the workplace, schools, public spaces, or online platforms. It is important to note that harassment is a violation of a person's dignity and rights, and it is often considered a form of discrimination or abuse. Recognizing and addressing harassment is crucial for fostering a safe and respectful environment where individuals can thrive and be free from harm.

Example sentences containing harassment

1. Workplace harassment affects many, causing distress and a hostile environment.
2. Cyberbullying is a form of digital harassment that teens often face online.
3. The law protects individuals from various forms of harassment and abuse.
4. Harassment in public spaces is a common issue women face globally.
5. To address harassment, companies enforce strict anti-bullying policies.
6. Sexual harassment in the office undermines professional integrity.

History and etymology of harassment

The noun 'harassment' is directly related to the verb 'harass,' and its etymology is intertwined with the development of the verb. 'Harassment' originated from the French word 'harasser,' which meant 'to exhaust' or 'to tire out.' This French term itself was derived from the Old French 'harer,' meaning 'to set a dog on' or 'to attack,' with possible roots in Old High German. Over time, the concept evolved, and in the late 17th century, 'harassment' came to signify the act of persistently or repeatedly subjecting someone to unwanted, intrusive, or intimidating behavior, often with the intention of causing distress, fear, or harm. The etymology of 'harassment' underscores its historical connection to the idea of wearing down or exhausting someone through troubling and distressing actions.

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Further usage examples of harassment

1. Stalking is a severe form of harassment inducing fear and anxiety.
2. Harassment online can be as damaging as face-to-face intimidation.
3. Victims of harassment often suffer in silence, fearing retaliation.
4. Schools need policies to address the growing issue of harassment.
5. Racial harassment creates toxic, divided communities and workplaces.
6. Laws against harassment aim to protect the vulnerable and oppressed.
7. Nobody should endure harassment; it's essential to speak up and act.
8. Facing harassment takes a toll on mental health and well-being.
9. Public awareness of harassment is increasing, promoting change.
10. Online platforms are combatting harassment with new safety features.
11. Harassment victims require support to overcome their traumatic experiences.
12. Bystander intervention can play a pivotal role in stopping harassment.
13. Harassment prevention training is mandatory in responsible companies.
14. Through education, we can create a society free from harassment.
15. The employee filed a complaint with HR about the ongoing workplace harassment.
16. The organization implemented strict policies to prevent harassment in the workplace.
17. She experienced relentless online harassment from anonymous trolls.
18. The school took immediate action to address the case of student harassment.
19. The legislation aims to provide stronger protection against sexual harassment.
20. The company conducted sensitivity training sessions to raise awareness about harassment.
21. The actress spoke out about her experiences with harassment in the entertainment industry.
22. The online platform implemented stricter measures to combat cyber harassment.
23. The campaign encouraged bystanders to speak up and intervene when witnessing harassment.
24. The organization launched a hotline for reporting cases of workplace harassment.
25. The anti-harassment policy emphasized zero tolerance for any form of harassment.

Suffix -ment, Annoyance and Irritation, Crisis and Opposition, Damage and Destruction, Danger and Threat, Sorrow and Strife, Hostility and Brutality, Harmful and Detrimental

abuse,infringement,oppression,torment

aggression,bullying,intimidation,maltreatment,mistreatment,molestation,persecution,victimization