Meaning & Definition of word "Stalking"

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    Stalking

    /ˈstɔː.kɪŋ/

    noun:

    • 1. The act or practice of stalking, especially a persistent and unwanted pursuit of another person.
      • Example: Stalking is a serious crime that can lead to severe legal consequences.
    • 2. A pattern of behavior involving repeated harassment or monitoring of an individual.
      • Example: She filed a restraining order due to the ongoing stalking by her ex-partner.

    verb:

    • 1. The act of pursuing or following someone stealthily, often with harmful intent.
      • Example: She reported the man for stalking her and making her feel unsafe.
    • 2. To track or observe someone, especially in a predatory manner.
      • Example: The detective was stalking the suspect, gathering evidence without being noticed.
    • 3. To follow or approach someone in a way that suggests a predatory intent.
      • Example: His constant stalking of her on social media made her uncomfortable.

    Etymology

    Middle English 'stalke', which means to pursue stealthily.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    cyberstalking:

    The use of the internet to stalk someone, especially through social media.

    stalking horse:

    A person or entity used as a cover for another’s true purposes.

    stalking crime:

    A criminal offense related to the act of stalking.

    Related Words

    harassment:

    Aggressive pressure or intimidation.

    obsession:

    A persistent preoccupation with a person or thing.

    Slang Meanings of stalking

    Meaning: Creeping

    Example Sentence: He’s been creeping on her Instagram posts for months.

    Meaning: Ghosting with a twist

    Example Sentence: It feels like he’s ghosting with a twist, always watching but never engaging.