sexual harassment

[sek-shoo-uhl huh-ras-muhnt, har-uhs-muhnt] / ˈsɛk ʃu əl həˈræs mənt, ˈhær əs mənt /

NOUN

unwanted sexual advance

Synonyms

STRONGEST

exploitation impropriety intimidation victimization

WEAK

inappropriate behavior offensive sexual advance sexual abuse 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.

Experts said the case marks an unprecedented shift in Thailand -- which never had a #MeToo movement -- with Thais more openly discussing sexual harassment and abuse.

From Barron's • May 25, 2026

Attorneys for Lively said on Thursday that she will continue pursuing damages against Baldoni and other defendants under a California law aimed at deterring retaliatory defamation lawsuits tied to sexual harassment claims.

From Los Angeles Times • May 7, 2026

She was part of the team that investigated sexual harassment and assault by Uber and Lyft drivers, and spearheaded the network's coverage of Elizabeth Holmes' criminal fraud trial.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 3, 2026

In a statement, Chief Commissioner Geraldine McGahey said a "zero-tolerance approach" by employers to sexual harassment in the workplace "will remind everyone how seriously it will be dealt with should any instances arise".

From BBC • Dec. 17, 2025

In 1979, Catharine MacKinnon published her breakthrough book The Sexual Harassment of Working Women, which theorized how sexual harassment violated the law.

From Slate • Nov. 24, 2025