sexual harassment

American  

[sek-shoo-uhl huh-ras-muhnt, har-uhs-muhnt] / ˈsɛk ʃu əl həˈræs mənt, ˈhær əs mənt /

noun

1. unwelcome sexual advances, either verbal or physical, especially by someone with power or authority.

   Employees complained about a corporate culture that turned a blind eye to discrimination, microaggressions, and sexual harassment.

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sexual harassment British  

noun

1. the persistent unwelcome directing of sexual remarks and looks, and unnecessary physical contact at a person, usually a woman, esp in the workplace

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Etymology

Origin of sexual harassment

First recorded in 1970–75

Example Sentences

Bush nominates federal appeals court judge Clarence Thomas to the Supreme Court, beginning an ultimately successful confirmation process marked by allegations of sexual harassment.

From Fox News

She also testified that what occurred on the elevator was not sexual harassment.

From Los Angeles Times

Last summer, after The Post reported allegations from 15 women of sexual harassment by former male employees, Daniel Snyder hired Wilkinson to investigate the team under the premise that it would be unbiased and independent.

From Washington Post

The team hired lawyer Beth Wilkinson last summer to look into allegations of sexual harassment and other improper conduct within the organization.

From Seattle Times

Tony Stark famously said of her after their first meeting, while Pepper Potts warned of “a very expensive sexual harassment lawsuit if you keep ogling her like that.”

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• exploitation
• impropriety
• intimidation
• victimization