# stalking

/ˈstɔkɪŋ/ (US) · /stˈɔːkɪŋ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/stalking
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. harassing a person

noun · CEFR B2

the crime of following or watching someone in a way that makes them feel scared or unsafe.

For teachers: the criminal act of persistently following or harassing another individual, typically causing them to fear for their safety.

- The celebrity had to call the police because of a stalking incident outside her home.
- The legal definition of stalking has expanded in recent years to include digital surveillance and persistent unwanted online contact.

Usage: often used as an uncountable noun in legal contexts.

## Examples

- The celebrity reported the man for stalking her online.
- New laws were introduced to protect victims from both physical stalking and digital harassment.
- The psychological impact of prolonged stalking can be devastating, often leaving the victim in a state of hyper-vigilance even after the perpetrator has been apprehended.

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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.