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Meaning of Word

Stalking refers to the act of repeatedly following, watching, or harassing someone, often in a way that causes fear, distress, or a sense of being threatened.

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. Stalking (noun): The act of persistently and obsessively pursuing or harassing someone, often without their consent or knowledge, in a manner that intrudes on their privacy or safety.
2. Stalking (verb): To follow or observe someone secretly or persistently, often with malicious intent.
3. Stalking (in a broader sense): The stealthy approach to a target, such as prey, in hunting.

History and Origin

The term stalking originates from the Old English word stalcian, meaning “to step stealthily” or “to approach secretly.” Initially associated with hunting and tracking prey, the word evolved in modern contexts to describe intrusive or harmful behavior toward individuals. It gained legal significance in the late 20th century as societies began addressing harassment and privacy concerns.

Detailed Explanation

Stalking is a form of unwelcome and obsessive attention that may involve following, monitoring, or repeatedly contacting someone against their will. This behavior can manifest online (cyberstalking) or offline and may include activities like sending unsolicited messages, watching someone from a distance, or appearing uninvited at their locations. It often stems from a desire for control, revenge, or obsession and is considered a criminal offense in many jurisdictions. Stalking can cause severe emotional distress and lead to legal repercussions for the perpetrator.

Example Sentences

1. The celebrity filed a restraining order against a fan accused of stalking her.
2. Stalking is a serious offense that violates personal boundaries and safety.
3. She felt uneasy knowing someone had been stalking her on social media.
4. Wildlife photographers often practice stalking techniques to capture images of animals.
5. He was arrested for stalking his ex-partner despite being warned to stay away.
6. Cyberstalking involves using the internet to harass or intimidate someone.
7. She changed her daily routine after noticing someone stalking her near her workplace.
8. Laws against stalking aim to protect individuals from harassment and harm.
9. The predator used stalking tactics to track its prey in the dense forest.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Harassment: Persistent behavior that causes annoyance or distress.
2. Pursuit: The act of chasing or following someone, often obsessively.
3. Shadowing: Secretly following someone to monitor their actions.
4. Obsessive Following: Constant and unwanted attention directed at someone.
5. Cyberstalking: Using digital platforms to harass or monitor someone.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Surveillance: The act of closely monitoring someone’s activities, often secretly.
2. Intimidation: Behaviors intended to frighten or coerce someone.
3. Trespassing: Entering someone’s space or life without permission.
4. Spying: Secretly observing or gathering information about someone.
5. Intrusion: The act of violating someone’s personal space or privacy.

Antonyms

1. Respecting Boundaries: Acknowledging and adhering to someone’s personal limits.
2. Privacy: Allowing someone to live without interference or observation.
3. Distance: Maintaining physical or emotional space from another person.
4. Indifference: Lack of interest or involvement in someone else’s life.
5. Non-interference: Refraining from interfering in someone’s affairs.