stalker

word

/ˈstɔkɝ/
STAW-kur
/stˈɔːkɐ/
STAW-kuh

Definition

A stalker is a person who follows or watches someone repeatedly in a way that feels scary or threatening, often without the person's consent.

Usage & Nuances

"Stalker" is often used in the context of criminal or obsessive behavior, and is formal/legal in tone. Common collocations include "online stalker" and "ex-boyfriend stalker". Do not use lightly about innocent curiosity; it refers to unwanted and often illegal attention.

Example Sentences

The police arrested the stalker outside her home.

basic

A stalker kept sending her strange messages online.

basic

Many celebrities have problems with stalkers.

basic

She changed her number after realizing she had a persistent stalker.

natural

Being an online stalker is just as serious as following someone in real life.

natural

If you think someone might be a stalker, trust your instincts and stay safe.

natural