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Molest: meaning, definitions and examples

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molest

 

[ məˈlɛst ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

criminal behavior

To harass or abuse (someone) sexually or physically, especially over a period of time.

Synonyms

abuse, assault, harass, violate

Examples of usage

  • He was accused of molesting several children in the neighborhood.
  • The teacher was arrested for molesting his students.
  • The priest was found guilty of molesting young boys.
  • She was too scared to tell anyone that her uncle was molesting her.
  • The coach was fired for molesting his players.
Context #2 | Verb

bother or disturb

To pester or interfere with someone or something.

Synonyms

annoy, bother, disturb, irritate

Examples of usage

  • The constant noise from the construction site was starting to molest the residents.
  • Don't molest me while I'm trying to work.
  • Please stop molesting the dog, he doesn't like it.

Translations

Translations of the word "molest" in other languages:

🇵🇹 molestar

🇮🇳 परेशान करना

🇩🇪 belästigen

🇮🇩 mengganggu

🇺🇦 турбувати

🇵🇱 molestować

🇯🇵 迷惑をかける

🇫🇷 déranger

🇪🇸 molestar

🇹🇷 rahatsız etmek

🇰🇷 괴롭히다

🇸🇦 إزعاج

🇨🇿 obtěžovat

🇸🇰 obťažovať

🇨🇳 打扰

🇸🇮 nadlegovati

🇮🇸 angra

🇰🇿 мазалау

🇬🇪 შეწუხება

🇦🇿 narahat etmək

🇲🇽 molestar

Word origin

The word 'molest' originated from the Latin word 'molestare', which means 'to disturb'. Over time, its meaning evolved to include both physical and sexual harassment. The word has been used in legal contexts to describe various forms of abuse and violation. It carries a strong negative connotation due to its association with criminal behavior and harm.

See also: molestation, molesting.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,604, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.