sexual abuse

American  

[sek-shoo-uhl uh-byoos] / ˈsɛk ʃu əl əˈbyus /

noun

1. nonconsensual touching of a person for one’s own sexual gratification or for the sexual gratification of someone else, especially when the nonconsenting party is a child.

   When children experience sexual abuse, it is rarely a stranger perpetrating the crime, but more commonly an authority figure or other adult they know.

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sexual abuse Cultural  

1. Unwanted sexual activity forced on a person by another through coercion or threats.

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Etymology

Origin of sexual abuse

First recorded in 1875–80 in the sense “masturbation”

Example Sentences

In the lawsuit, Allred will represent a woman who alleges that she is a victim of child sexual abuse by the "Cosby Show" star.

From Fox News

Duggar was indicted in April on the charges that he downloaded and possessed child pornography, some of which prosecutors said depicted the sexual abuse of toddlers.

From Seattle Times

Mr. Litton, 61, was elected at a contentious session at which critical race theory, clergy sexual abuse and a decline in membership were hot topics.

From Washington Times

American Indian boarding schools — like their Canadian counterparts — were characterized by rampant physical, emotional and sexual abuse; neglect; forced relocation; and family separation.

From Washington Post

In a report released Monday on the sexual abuse of minors, Poland’s Catholic Church lists 292 clergymen who are alleged to have abused more than 300 boys and girls from 1958 through 2020.

From Washington Post

Related Words

• exploitation
• impropriety
• intimidation
• victimization