Harass

Harass is a verb meaning to subject someone to persistent, unwanted, and intimidating conduct. In most contexts, harassment involves repeated behavior that creates a hostile environment or causes distress. It can target a person’s gender, race, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or other characteristics, but it can also apply to non-protected targets when the conduct is severe or pervasive.

Common forms include verbal insults, threats, obscene comments, stalking, unwanted physical contact, and online harassment through email, messages, or social media. Harassment may occur in workplaces, schools, housing, or public spaces, and may violate policies or laws designed to protect people from discrimination and intimidation.

Legal responses vary by jurisdiction. In many places, harassment is prohibited if it is unwelcome, based on protected characteristics, or creates a hostile or intimidating environment; the remedy may include reporting, discipline, civil action, or criminal charges. Organizations and institutions often have anti-harassment policies requiring prompt investigation and remediation.

Impact includes psychological distress, anxiety, reduced well-being, and diminished participation in work or study. Prevention relies on clear policies, training, accessible reporting channels, confidential support, and timely, thorough investigations. Safe bystander intervention and adequate documentation help victims obtain remedies.