sexual assault

[ sek-shoo-uhl uh-sawlt ]

noun

1. nonconsensual touching of one person for the sexual gratification of another, including rape, fondling, molestation, or other unwanted contact with the genitals, anus, buttocks, groin, or breasts of either party:

   The victim was intoxicated and incapable of giving consent, so any sex act will be treated as sexual assault.

Word History and Origins

Origin of sexual assault¹

First recorded in 1880–85

Example Sentences

The negative headlines and accusations of sexual assault continue.

From The Daily Beast

Sena was first arrested on a sexual assault charge in September.

From The Daily Beast

“What some people fail to realize is that it is not just fraternities that commit sexual assault,” he suggests.

From The Daily Beast

“If a house is accused of problems such as sexual assault, then I believe that actions should take place on that house,” he says.

From The Daily Beast

All seem to acknowledge that sexual assault is a serious problem that requires campus-wide education.

From The Daily Beast

Related Words

• molestation
• rape
• violation