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Molest: meaning, definitions and examples

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molest

 

[məˈlɛst ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

criminal behavior

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

Synonyms

abuse, assault, harass, violate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
molest

Use this word when referring to inappropriate or unwanted sexual behavior, often involving children. It carries very negative connotations and is taken very seriously.

  • He was arrested for molesting a child.
  • The teacher was accused of molesting several students.
abuse

This word is broader and can refer to physical, emotional, or sexual harm done to someone, often over a period of time. It indicates a misuse of power or trust.

  • She suffered years of emotional abuse from her partner.
  • Child abuse is a serious crime.
harass

This word describes unwanted behavior that bothers or annoys someone, especially repeatedly. It can be sexual, verbal, or physical in nature.

  • She was harassed at work by her colleague.
  • They are harassing him with constant phone calls.
assault

This term is most often used in legal contexts to describe a violent attack on someone, which can be either physical or sexual. It is generally considered a serious crime.

  • He was charged with assault after the bar fight.
  • The victim of the assault was taken to the hospital.
violate

Use this word to describe breaking a law, promise, or someone's personal rights, including personal space or privacy. It has a very negative connotation.

  • He violated the terms of the contract.
  • Her privacy was violated when someone hacked her email.

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.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
molest

This word is often used in legal or serious contexts and has very negative connotations. It usually refers to unwanted or inappropriate physical contact or harassment.

  • The man was arrested for attempting to molest a child.
  • She felt threatened and molested by his inappropriate advances.
bother

This word is used when someone causes inconvenience, disturbance, or slight irritation. It can be a bit stronger than 'annoy'.

  • I'm sorry to bother you, but could you help me with this?
  • It bothers me that you are always late.
disturb

Use this word when someone interrupts or prevents someone from being calm or at peace. It can imply a more significant intrusion than 'bother'.

  • Please do not disturb him; he is sleeping.
  • The loud music from the party disturbed me all night.
annoy

Use 'annoy' when someone does something that causes mild irritation or frustration. It is usually less severe than 'bother' or 'disturb'.

  • His constant humming started to annoy everyone in the room.
  • It annoys me when people talk during the movie.
irritate

This word is used when something progressively causes frustration or anger. It’s stronger than 'annoy' and suggests increasing discomfort.

  • His habit of interrupting others really irritates me.
  • The constant buzzing sound in the room was irritating to everyone.

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.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'molest' comes from the Latin 'molestare,' which means to disturb or trouble.
  • Originally, the term did not carry the heavy connotation it does today; its meaning has evolved over centuries.
  • In medieval times, 'molest' was used more broadly to describe any form of physical or mental distress.

Law

  • In many jurisdictions, 'molestation' specifically refers to inappropriate sexual behaviour towards someone, particularly minors.
  • Legal definitions can vary, but often include unwanted touching or advances that cause distress or alarm.
  • Judges and lawmakers often reinforce the serious nature of cases involving this term, as they have significant social implications.

Psychology

  • Victims of molestation may experience a range of emotional effects, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
  • Understanding the psychological consequences is vital for treatment and support for survivors.
  • The trauma associated with molestation can affect relationships and personal development long after the incident.

Pop Culture

  • This word has been featured prominently in discussions about abuse in media and advocacy, raising awareness toward prevention.
  • Numerous films and documentaries have addressed the impact of molestation on individuals and families, highlighting the need for legal reform.
  • High-profile cases often keep this issue in the public conversation, leading to societal changes and more support for victims.

Education

  • Schools often implement programs to educate students about personal safety and boundaries to prevent molestation.
  • Workshops and classes teach children how to recognize and report inappropriate behavior.
  • Educational institutions play a crucial role in providing resources and support to victims of molestation.

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 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.