molest — to abuse or assault someone sexually
Part of speech: VERB
Definition: to abuse or assault someone sexually
Pronunciation (IPA): /məˈlest/
Example Sentences
- The celebrity complained that paparazzi constantly molest her with intrusive questions.
- My cat molests my keyboard every time I try to work from home.
- The teacher was fired for molesting students.
molest
VERB[/məˈlest/]
to abuse or assault someone sexually

The brave dog wouldn't let the stranger molest the little girl in the park.

They protest in the streets and contest in the courts!
Got the picture? Now let's practice.
🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
Derived from Latin 'molestare', meaning 'to trouble' or 'to disturb'. Originally signified simple annoyance or harassment, but in modern usage has come to denote sexual abuse or assault.
Breakdown
From Latin 'molestare' (to trouble, disturb), which evolved from 'molestus' (troublesome, burdensome), related to 'moles' (a mass or burden).
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The celebrity complained that paparazzi constantly molest her with intrusive questions.”
“My cat molests my keyboard every time I try to work from home.”
“The teacher was fired for molesting students.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related
Want to master 19,000+ words?
Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.