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.