sexual assault

[sek-shoo-uhl uh-sawlt] / ˈsɛk ʃu əl əˈsɔlt /

NOUN

sex crime

Synonyms

STRONGEST

molestation rape violation

WEAK

carnal abuse date rape forcible intercourse grope ravishment sex crime sexual abuse sexual offense unlawful sexual intercourse

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.

Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese apologised for any "misinterpretation" Thursday after describing a sexual assault survivor who became an advocate for women as "difficult".

From Barron's • Feb. 26, 2026

In his time with the department, Nanos has led major investigations and also faced scrutiny, including over department spending and how he handled a sexual assault case brought by a deputy against another department employee.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 18, 2026

The former first minister, who launched the Alba Party in 2021, was also cleared of sexual assault charges at a subsequent criminal trial.

From BBC • Feb. 13, 2026

Under pressure from feminist activists, victim advocates and their own staff, many organizations adopted policies against identifying victims of sexual assault, especially without consent.

From Salon • Dec. 17, 2025

The measure would replace the current system of adjudicating sexual assault by taking the cases outside a victim’s chain of command.

From "The Sense of Style" by Steven Pinker