Harassment

/həˈræs.mənt/

Meaning & Definition

noun

Aggressive pressure or intimidation.

The company received several complaints about the harassment of employees by their supervisor.

Unwanted or offensive behavior that causes distress or alarm.

The actress spoke out against online harassment she faced after her latest film was released.

Persistent annoyance or bullying, particularly in a sexual context.

She filed a lawsuit against her former employer for harassment after being subjected to inappropriate comments.

From the French word 'harasser', meaning to vex or annoy.

sexual harassment:

Unwelcome sexual advances or conduct in the workplace or in a similar setting.

verbal harassment:

Use of insulting language directed at an individual.

harassment campaign:

A systematic series of actions intended to torment or irritate someone.

stalking

He was charged with stalking for his persistent harassment.

hassling

Quit hassling me about the project; I’ll get it done in time!