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

When taking in the entire experience of domestic air travel, including traffic near the terminal, security lines and frequent delays, one might sum it up with one word: harassment.

Read more on MarketWatch

She said she developed agoraphobia and psoriasis after the harassment and needed antidepressants.

Read more on Barron's

“The unprecedented decision by the Board to place Villanueva on a ‘Do Not Hire’ was the result of a defamatory charge of discrimination and harassment,” the former sheriff wrote in the June complaint.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

"Their arrest, prosecution and conviction for harassment were an egregious affront on those rights and they are delighted to have finally been exonerated."

Read more on BBC

In response to Amnesty's report, Kenya's interior minister said the government "does not sanction harassment or violence against any citizen".

Read more on BBC

Related Words

• molestation 
• persecution 
• provocation