rapist

noun

rap·​ist ˈrā-pist How to pronounce rapist (audio)
plural rapists
: a person who rapes someone : a person who commits rape
a convicted rapist

Examples of rapist in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Demand change to cruel immigration policies Polls show that most Americans are supportive of deporting undocumented murderers and rapists. Letters To The Editor, The Orlando Sentinel, 13 June 2025 These rioters in Los Angeles are fighting to keep rapists, murderers, and other violent criminals loose on Los Angeles streets. Dan Gooding gabe Whisnant, MSNBC Newsweek, 9 June 2025 Written and directed by Vito Brown, the movie has Gallo playing Golden State killer Joseph James DeAngelo, the serial murderer and rapist who began terrorizing California residents all the way back in the 1970s, only being brought to justice in 2018. Andreas Wiseman, Deadline, 12 May 2025 Survivors of homicide and assault around the country are robbed of closure as killers and rapists make regular bids for freedom. Boston Herald Editorial Staff, Boston Herald, 6 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for rapist

Word History

First Known Use

1867, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of rapist was in 1867

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Rapist.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rapist. Accessed 2 Jul. 2025.

Medical Definition

rapist

noun
rap·​ist ˈrā-pəst How to pronounce rapist (audio)
: an individual who commits rape

More from Merriam-Webster on rapist

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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