sexual assault

[sek-shoo-uhl uh-sawlt] / ˈsɛk ʃu əl əˈsɔlt /

NOUN

sex crime

Synonyms

STRONGEST

molestation rape violation

WEAK

carnal abuse date rape forcible intercourse grope ravishment sex crime sexual abuse sexual offense unlawful sexual intercourse

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

In his time with the department, Nanos has led major investigations and also faced scrutiny, including over department spending and how he handled a sexual assault case brought by a deputy against another department employee.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 18, 2026

Ms Nguyen is most recognised for her work protecting the civil rights of sexual assault survivors.

From BBC • Dec. 30, 2025

Under pressure from feminist activists, victim advocates and their own staff, many organizations adopted policies against identifying victims of sexual assault, especially without consent.

From Salon • Dec. 17, 2025

Marseille coach Roberto De Zerbi says Mason Greenwood "paid dearly" after being accused of sexual assault, as the forward prepares to face English opposition for the first time since the allegations this week.

From Barron's • Nov. 24, 2025

The measure would replace the current system of adjudicating sexual assault by taking the cases outside a victim’s chain of command.

From "The Sense of Style" by Steven Pinker