harassment

ha-rass-ment · noun

imported

Definitions

1.
Aggressive pressure or intimidation; the act of subjecting someone to unwelcome behavior repeatedly.
2.
Behavior that is threatening, offensive, or disturbing.

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sexual harassment — Unwelcome sexual advances or behavior in the workplace or elsewhere
•
workplace harassment — Offensive behavior directed at employees
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cyber harassment — Harassment conducted through electronic means
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harassment campaign — An organized effort to repeatedly intimidate or disturb someone

From French harasser ("to tire out, vex") + -ment suffix. The word became prominent in legal and workplace contexts in the late 20th century.