as in approaching
to approach and speak to (someone) often in an angry, aggressive, or unwanted way
He was accosted by peddlers selling touristy trinkets on the street. She was so famous that people would accost her on the street and ask for an autograph.
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Recent Examples of accosting
Maybe the white-haired woman in the Phillies hoodie has done something more egregious than being outhustled for a home run ball in the stands at LoanDepot Park in Miami, and then accosting the dad who retrieved it and gave it to his son for the kid's birthday.
—
Neal Rubin, Freep.com, 10 Sep. 2025
The trailer features minimal dialogue, and Farrell, 49, is seen running through the streets and accosting casino employees at one point.
—Jack Smart, People.com, 19 Aug. 2025
Neal Rubin, Freep.com, 10 Sep. 2025
The trailer features minimal dialogue, and Farrell, 49, is seen running through the streets and accosting casino employees at one point.
—Jack Smart, People.com, 19 Aug. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for accosting
Verb
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In the attack, suspects were identified approaching the yellow line in southern Khan Younis and were deemed a threat to the troops.—
Emma Bussey,
FOXNews.com,
5 Feb. 2026
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At one point, Woods tapped the back of his head, signaling that the seal was approaching.—
Laylan Connelly,
Oc Register,
5 Feb. 2026
Verb
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Journalists and academics might think twice about confronting power.—
Abby McCloskey,
Twin Cities,
5 Feb. 2026
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At times, it’s been challenging, confronting even (for all of us).—
Hannah Silverman,
Parents,
5 Feb. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Accosting.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/accosting. Accessed 7 Feb. 2026.
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