# hazing

/ˈheɪzɪŋ/ (US) · /hˈeɪzɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/hazing
Updated: 2026-05-20

## Definition

to force someone to do something difficult or unpleasant as a way of testing their strength or loyalty. This is often done by a group to a new member.

For teachers: to subject a person to a series of unpleasant or degrading tests or tasks as a condition for acceptance into a group. Often used in the context of initiation rituals or bullying.

## Examples

- The older students began to haze the new recruits.
- The university implemented strict rules to prevent hazing during the first week of the academic year.
- While some view the ritual as a necessary rite of passage, others argue that hazing creates a toxic environment where psychological safety is compromised for the sake of tradition.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.