molest
|mo/lest|
C1
/məˈlɛst/
trouble or assault
Etymology
Etymology Information
'molest' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'molestare,' where 'molestus' meant 'troublesome.'
Historical Evolution
'molestare' transformed into the Old French word 'molester,' and eventually became the modern English word 'molest' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to trouble or annoy,' but over time it evolved to include the meaning of 'sexual assault.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
to bother or annoy someone persistently.
The children were told not to molest the animals at the zoo.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45