Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Showing results for sexual abuse. Search instead for sexualsadism.
Definitions

sexual abuse

[sek-shoo-uhl uh-byoos] / ˈsɛk ʃu əl əˈbyus /
NOUN
sexual assault
Synonyms
STRONGEST
molestation rape violation
WEAK
carnal abuse date rape forcible intercourse grope ravishment sex crime sexual offense unlawful sexual intercourse
NOUN
sexual harassment
Synonyms
STRONGEST
exploitation impropriety intimidation victimization
WEAK
inappropriate behavior offensive sexual advance sexual pressure suggestive comments unprofessional behavior unwanted sexual advances

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 the hours and days after the late farmworkers rights leader César Chávez was accused of sexual abuse, his name and image were stripped from schools, streets and murals.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 10, 2026

A government spokesperson said all police forces were expected to "rigorously investigate" any claims of child sexual abuse "to ensure perpetrators are brought to justice".

From BBC • Mar. 25, 2026

Intense angst over César Chávez’s legacy amid sexual abuse allegations is ripping through California classrooms, prompting teachers, scholars and school systems to urgently revamp lessons about one of California’s most widely taught historic figures.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 23, 2026

Spanish prosecutors have dropped an investigation into complaints of sexual abuse against the singer Julio Iglesias.

From BBC • Jan. 23, 2026

It didn't appear that emotional trauma or abuse was bedizened as sexual abuse in a display to get others to empathize with her tattered past.

From Tokyo to Tijuana: Gabriele Departing America by Sills, Steven (Steven David Justin)