Molesting Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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molesting

[mษ™หˆlษ›stษชล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

criminal behavior

to harass or assault sexually; especially: to force physical and usually sexual contact on (someone) without their consent

Synonyms

abuse, assault, harass, violate.

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Word Description / Examples
molesting

This term is typically used to describe inappropriate and harmful sexual behavior, often towards children. It carries a very serious and negative connotation.

  • He was arrested for molesting a child in the park.
  • Reports of molesting in schools are unfortunately becoming more common.
abuse

Abuse can refer to physical, emotional, or psychological harm to another person. It has many contexts, including domestic settings, workplaces, and institutions. It always carries a negative connotation.

  • She suffered years of emotional abuse from her spouse.
  • The organization is investigating claims of financial abuse by the manager.
assault

Assault usually involves physically attacking another person. It can also include threats of harm. This word is often used in legal contexts to describe violent crimes.

  • He was charged with assault after the bar fight.
  • Verbal threats can also be considered assault under the law.
violate

Violate means to break a law, rule, or agreement, or to disobey someone's personal rights or privacy. It carries a negative connotation and is often used in legal and formal settings.

  • Unauthorized access to the network violates company policy.
  • The journalist was accused of violating privacy laws.
harass

Harass describes persistent, unwanted behavior, which can be verbal, physical, or online. It is often used in contexts such as workplaces or social interactions, and it universally carries a negative context.

  • She reported her coworker for harassment.
  • Bullying and online harass are major concerns for teenagers.

Examples of usage

  • He was arrested for molesting a minor.
  • The teacher was accused of molesting several students.
  • Children should be taught how to protect themselves from being molested.
  • The priest was convicted of molesting young boys.
  • The authorities are investigating a case of child molesting.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Legal Aspects

  • Laws vary by location, but in many places, molesting is considered a serious criminal offense with severe penalties.
  • Victims of molesting often face lasting emotional and psychological effects, which the legal system aims to address through support and counseling.
  • Many countries have established age of consent laws to protect minors from inappropriate advances.

Psychological Effects

  • Survivors of molesting often experience trust issues, anxiety, and difficulty forming relationships later in life.
  • Therapies often focus on recovery, empowerment, and addressing trauma to help individuals rebuild their lives.
  • Education about consent and boundaries can aid in prevention efforts and foster healthier interactions in society.

Cultural Awareness

  • Discussions about molesting have increased in popular culture, highlighted by movements for safety and support for survivors.
  • Media portrayals can shape public perceptions, often either sensationalizing or leading to messages about the importance of consent and respect.
  • Numerous organizations work tirelessly to raise awareness and promote prevention, emphasizing the need for open dialogue.

Historical Context

  • Historically, conversations around sexual misconduct were often silenced; modern advocacy fights for voices to be heard and rights to be protected.
  • The #MeToo movement has played a significant role in changing the narrative, encouraging victims to speak out and seek justice.
  • Laws and societal norms have evolved over time, increasingly recognizing the rights of victims and the need for protections against abuse.

Origin of 'molesting'

The word 'molesting' originates from the Latin word 'molestare', which means 'to disturb or trouble'. Over time, the meaning of the word has evolved to specifically refer to unwanted sexual advances or behavior. The term is commonly used in legal contexts to describe sexual assault or harassment. It is important to address and prevent molesting behaviors to protect individuals from harm and ensure a safe environment.


See also: molest, molestation.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,997, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.