harassment

[huh-ras-muhnt, har-uhs-muhnt]

noun

1. an act or instance of harassing; torment, vexation, or intimidation.

   daily harassment by bullies at school;

   the harassments of daily life.

2. the condition or fact of being harassed.

   the stress of harassment and discrimination.

Pronunciation Note

See harass.

Other Word Forms

• overharassment noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of harassment¹

First recorded in 1750–55; harass + -ment

Example Sentences

She also now accuses NHS Fife of discriminating against her, and its director of people and culture, David Miller, of harassment.

Read more on BBC

Unite said the Job&Talent recruitment agency workers had voted in favour of strike action "over bullying, harassment and the threat of blacklisting at the council's refuse department two weeks ago".

Read more on BBC

“The deal cements policy changes that will protect students and other members of the campus from harassment and discrimination, and it recommits the school to merit-based hiring and admissions,” McMahon said.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Exclusive Resorts said Mr Chesworth and his wife had been required to vacate their home because of "serious and persistent" breaches of their licence, including harassment.

Read more on BBC

Mr Justice Richard Smith described the family's conduct as "appalling", saying it amounted to "bullying, lies and harassment".

Read more on BBC

Related Words

• molestation 
• persecution 
• provocation