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

See Examples For:

sexual harassment

She’s the centerpiece of “9 to 5,” a movie about unionization and pushing back against workplace sexual harassment.

From Salon ● Aug. 27, 2026

In April, Liman also dismissed 10 of the 13 claims in Lively’s lawsuit, including her sexual harassment and defamation claims, while allowing retaliation-related claims to proceed.

From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 26, 2026

Though the Hewlett-Packard board found Hurd didn’t violate the company’s policy regarding sexual harassment, it determined he had submitted inaccurate expense reports to conceal the relationship.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 18, 2026

"I have committed neither assault nor violence nor sexual harassment," he insisted.

From Barron's ● Jul. 7, 2026

BTP's Ass Ch Con Charlie Doyle, from the British Transport Police, said the force would not tolerate sexual harassment on the railway network.

From BBC ● May 21, 2026

Related Words

• exploitation
• impropriety
• intimidation
• victimization