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Showing results for sexual abuse. Search instead for sexual Acts.
Definitions

sexual abuse

[sek-shoo-uhl uh-byoos] / ˈsɛk ʃu əl əˈbyus /
NOUN
sexual assault
Synonyms
STRONGEST
molestation rape violation
WEAK
carnal abuse date rape forcible intercourse grope ravishment sex crime sexual offense unlawful sexual intercourse
NOUN
sexual harassment
Synonyms
STRONGEST
exploitation impropriety intimidation victimization
WEAK
inappropriate behavior offensive sexual advance sexual pressure suggestive comments unprofessional behavior unwanted sexual advances

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

It was a post-#MeToo law, the Adult Survivors Act, that allowed the journalist and advice columnist E. Jean Carroll to bring her civil sexual abuse case against Trump.

From Salon • Apr. 19, 2026

A government spokesperson said all police forces were expected to "rigorously investigate" any claims of child sexual abuse "to ensure perpetrators are brought to justice".

From BBC • Mar. 25, 2026

All seven board members joined as co-sponsors of the Tuesday resolution, which calls for added support for victims of sexual abuse.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 24, 2026

Australia's prime minister has apologised for calling a former Australian of the Year and sexual abuse survivor "difficult", saying it was only in reference to the hardships she has faced.

From BBC • Feb. 25, 2026

It didn't appear that emotional trauma or abuse was bedizened as sexual abuse in a display to get others to empathize with her tattered past.

From Tokyo to Tijuana: Gabriele Departing America by Sills, Steven (Steven David Justin)