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.

---

sexual abuse Cultural  

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

---

Etymology

Origin of sexual abuse

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

Example Sentences

Women involved in the profession also say they often face sexual abuse and harassment.

From BBC

The libel trial, and another separate case in which Sonko is charged with sexual abuse, have spurred violent protests across the country.

From Reuters

Dr. Berendzen went on to work with survivors of childhood sexual abuse, including as a board member of nonprofit organizations that deal with child-protection organizations.

From Washington Post

The measure, still awaiting presidential assent before it becomes law, prescribes life in prison for anyone identifying as a sexual minority, as well as the death penalty for child sexual abuse committed by homosexuals.

From BBC

Carroll is also pursuing a battery claim under a New York law that lets sexual abuse survivors sue their alleged attackers long after statutes of limitations have run out.

From Reuters

Related Words

• exploitation
• impropriety
• intimidation
• victimization