Harasser Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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harasser

[hษ™หˆrรฆsษ™r ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

workplace

A person who subjects someone to aggressive pressure or intimidation, typically on a repeated basis.

Synonyms

bully, persecutor, tormentor.

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Word Description / Examples
harasser

This word is often used in situations where someone repeatedly bothers or annoys another person in a way that is unwelcome. It can be used in both personal and professional contexts and is considered negative.

  • She filed a complaint against her harasser at work.
  • The online community took steps to remove the harasser from their platform.
bully

This term is frequently used in school or childhood settings where someone uses strength or power to intimidate those who are weaker. It can also be used for adults in non-physical contexts.

  • The school took action to stop the bully from picking on younger students.
  • Even in the office, he was known as a bully who made others feel small.
tormentor

This term is used to describe someone who causes severe suffering or mental anguish to another person. It is a strong and negative word often used in contexts involving prolonged and intense distress.

  • The character in the novel was haunted by his tormentor's constant threats.
  • She couldnโ€™t focus on her work because of her tormentorโ€™s relentless mental games.
persecutor

This word is used in more severe contexts involving continuous, hostile, and unfair treatment, often for reasons like race, religion, or personal beliefs. It is strongly negative and typically used in legal or historical contexts.

  • The refugees fled their country to escape their persecutors.
  • He was known as a persecutor during the regime's oppressive rule.

Examples of usage

  • The company has a zero-tolerance policy towards harassers in the workplace.
  • She filed a complaint against her harasser for inappropriate behavior.
Context #2 | Noun

online

An individual who engages in online harassment, such as cyberbullying or trolling.

Synonyms

abuser, cyberbully, troll.

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Word Description / Examples
harasser

Identical to a previous entry, indicating persistent troubling or annoying behavior.

  • Repeated across different contexts, showing the versatility of the term.
cyberbully

Describes someone who uses digital platforms, such as social media or messaging apps, to intimidate, harass, or harm others. This term specifically applies to online interactions and is often discussed in the context of children or teenagers.

  • The school implemented stricter rules to combat cyberbullies.
  • Cyberbullies often hide behind anonymous profiles to attack their victims.
troll

Used to refer to someone who deliberately posts provocative or off-topic messages in an online community to elicit reactions, often causing disruption or upset. Trolls are typically found on forums, social media, or comment sections.

  • The discussion was derailed by a troll who posted inflammatory comments.
  • Don't feed the troll; ignoring them is often the best strategy.
abuser

Refers to someone who mistreats others, often through physical, emotional, or psychological harm. This term is usually used in the context of relationships or situations involving power dynamics, and has a strong negative connotation.

  • The victim bravely spoke out about her experiences with her abuser.
  • The organization offers support to those suffering from domestic abusers.

Examples of usage

  • She blocked the harasser who was sending her abusive messages online.
  • The platform took action against the harasser for violating community guidelines.
Context #3 | Verb

general

To subject someone to aggressive pressure or intimidation, typically on a repeated basis.

Synonyms

bully, intimidate, torment.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
harasser

Usually refers to someone who persistently bothers or annoys another person. This term is commonly used in the context of workplace or sexual harassment.

  • The company took action against the employee who was accused of being a harasser.
  • She felt uncomfortable because her harasser kept making inappropriate comments.
intimidate

Refers to the act of making someone afraid or overawed, often to achieve a particular goal or control them. This can be done through threats, displaying power, or aggressive behavior.

  • The large dog was meant to intimidate potential intruders.
  • She used her high position to intimidate her employees into following her rules.
bully

Typically used to describe someone who uses strength or power to intimidate or harm those who are weaker. Often seen in school settings but can apply to any scenario involving a power imbalance.

  • The school has a zero-tolerance policy against bullies.
  • He remembered the bully who used to take his lunch money.
torment

Describes causing severe physical or mental suffering. The term implies prolonged and intense distress or suffering.

  • The prisoner was tormented by the guards.
  • Memories of the tragic event continue to torment him.

Examples of usage

  • She felt harassed by her supervisor's constant criticisms.
  • The online community rallied together to stop the harassing behavior.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Legal Definitions

  • In many places, harassment can be considered a crime, especially if it involves threats or unwanted sexual advances.
  • Laws vary by country and region, but harassment often includes actions that create a hostile environment for the victim.

Social Impact

  • Harassment can lead to serious emotional and psychological harm for victims, affecting their mental health and well-being.
  • Workplace harassment is a significant issue, prompting many companies to implement strict policies to protect employees.

Cultural Representation

  • Media portrayals of harassment have raised awareness, often highlighting the struggles of those affected and the importance of consent.
  • Various movements, such as #MeToo, shine a light on the prevalence of harassment in society and encourage victims to speak out.

Psychology

  • Research shows that harassers may seek power or control over others, often displaying aggressive or dominating behaviors.
  • Victims of harassment often experience feelings of anxiety, fear, and helplessness, which can lead to long-term trauma.

Preventive Measures

  • Educational programs in schools and workplaces focus on teaching respect and boundaries to prevent harassment.
  • Bystander intervention training encourages individuals to act if they witness harassment, promoting a culture of support and accountability.

Origin of 'harasser'

The word 'harasser' originates from the French word 'harasser', which means 'to exhaust' or 'to fatigue'. The term was first recorded in English in the late 17th century. Over time, it has come to specifically refer to someone who subjects others to aggressive or intimidating behavior, especially in the workplace or online. The concept of harassment has evolved with the rise of technology, leading to new forms of harassment such as cyberbullying.


See also: harass, harassed, harassing, harassment.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,662, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.