/
ˈharəs,
həˈras/
v.
- torment by subjecting to constant interference or intimidation.
-
[as adj. harassed]
strained as a result of having too many demands made on one:
harassed parents.
Derivative
- harasser n.
- harassing adj.
- harassingly adv.
- harassment n.
Usage
The word harass is pronounced either with the stress on the har- or with the stress on the -rass. The former pronunciation is the older and is regarded by some as the only correct one.
Etymology
C17: from Fr. harasser, from harer ‘set a dog on’, from Gmc hare, a cry urging a dog to attack.