Groping: meaning, definitions and examples

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groping

[ˈɡrəʊpɪŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

inappropriate behavior

The act of searching or feeling with the hands in an aimless manner, especially in a sexual or inappropriate way. Groping is considered a form of harassment and violation of personal space.

Synonyms

harassing, molesting, touching inappropriately.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
groping	This term is often used to describe the act of touching someone in a sexual manner without their consent, usually involving hands. She felt uncomfortable because someone was groping her in the crowded subway. Victims of groping often feel violated and unsafe.
molesting	This term is generally used to refer to inappropriate sexual behavior or advances, especially towards children, involving physical contact. The man was arrested for molesting a child at the park. Parents are advised to educate their children about the dangers of molesting.
harassing	This term encompasses a broad range of aggressive or intimidating behavior, not necessarily physical, including unwelcome comments, gestures, or actions. He was fired from his job after multiple complaints of harassing his colleagues. Online harassing has become a significant issue on social media platforms.
touching inappropriately	This is a broader term that describes any form of touching that is not welcome or proper, often in a sexual context. She reported her supervisor for touching her inappropriately during meetings. The policy clearly states that touching inappropriately is grounds for dismissal.

Examples of usage

He was fired from his job for repeatedly engaging in groping female coworkers.
The victim reported the incident of groping to the authorities.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

physical contact

To feel or fondle someone or something with the hands in an inappropriate or sexual manner. Groping is often done without consent and can be a form of assault.

Synonyms

caress, handle inappropriately, molest.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
groping	Often used to describe touching or feeling someone in a rough or inappropriate way without their consent. It carries a negative connotation. She felt uncomfortable because someone was groping her in the crowded subway. There have been multiple reports of groping at the festival.
caress	Used to describe a gentle, loving touch. Typically has a positive connotation and is often associated with affection between loved ones. He caressed her cheek gently before saying goodbye. The mother caressed her baby's head to soothe him to sleep.
molest	Describes sexual abuse or assault, typically involving an adult and a minor. It has an extremely negative connotation and is often used in legal contexts. The man was arrested for attempting to molest a young girl. Victims of molestation often require long-term counseling.
handle inappropriately	Describes touching someone in a way that is unsuitable or disrespectful. Often used in formal or legal contexts and has a negative connotation. The teacher was fired for handling the students inappropriately. She warned him not to handle her inappropriately or she would report him.

Examples of usage

She felt uncomfortable when he started groping her at the party.
The security guard caught the man groping merchandise in the store.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'groping' comes from the Old English 'gropian', meaning to feel or search with hands.
Related words include 'grope', which can describe both innocent searching and inappropriate touching.

Legal Studies

In many places, groping is classified as sexual assault, emphasizing consent and personal boundaries.
Laws regarding groping vary significantly by region, with some jurisdictions having specific statutes addressing it.

Psychology

Research shows that groping, particularly in public spaces, is often related to power dynamics and aggression.
Victims of groping may experience trauma and longer-term psychological effects, including anxiety.

Pop Culture

Groping is frequently represented in films and television as a violation, often used to highlight issues of consent.
The #MeToo movement raised awareness about groping and other forms of sexual harassment.

Social Issues

Groping is often discussed in conversations about women's safety in public spaces and the importance of respecting personal boundaries.
Public awareness campaigns aim to educate individuals about consent and the impact of groping on victims.

Translations

Translations of the word "groping" in other languages:

🇵🇹 apalpação

🇮🇳 टटोलना

🇩🇪 tasten

🇮🇩 meraba-raba

🇺🇦 мацання

🇵🇱 macanie

🇯🇵 手探り

🇫🇷 tâtonnement

🇪🇸 manoseo

🇹🇷 elle arama

🇰🇷 더듬기

🇸🇦 تحسس

🇨🇿 hmatání

🇸🇰 ohmatávanie

🇨🇳 摸索

🇸🇮 tipanje

🇮🇸 þreifingar

🇰🇿 сипалау

🇬🇪 გრძნობიერება

🇦🇿 əlləmə

🇲🇽 manoseo

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,903, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

...
17900 flimsy
17901 abounding
17902 succulent
17903 groping
17904 batting
17905 imperceptible
17906 convalescent
...