Harass

Part of speech: verb

Pronunciation: /həˈɹæs/

Definitions

1. To persistently bother, intimidate, or create a hostile environment for someone through repeated unwanted actions or comments
2. To continuously disturb or intimidate an individual through repeated unwanted actions or remarks that create discomfort or distress
3. To repeatedly cause distress or discomfort to someone through unwelcome actions or words

Etymology: The most striking twist is that "harass" once meant a dog's command. Old French "harer" meant "to set a dog on," a call urging a hound to attack, and it is likely connected to a Frankish word "hara," meaning "here" or "hither." Shouting that word at a dog was the root of a verb about hounding someone. From there the sense moved from setting a dog on prey to wearing out and tormenting. Old French "harasser" meant "to exhaust, tire out, wear out," and "to harry, torment, vex." The English verb carries that older sense of relentless pressure, the picture of something chased until it is worn down. Its modern meaning of repeated unwanted actions that cause distress grows directly from that image of persistent pursuit.

Synonyms: bully, pester, torment, annoy, badger

Antonyms: comfort, reassure, support, help, protect