Cyberbullying Definition, Examples & Prevention

Meaning 1：Online harassment (Cyberbullying)

Cyberbullying 🔊

/ˈsaɪbərˌbʊliɪŋ/

The act of repeatedly and intentionally harassing, threatening, or embarrassing someone using the internet, social media, or other digital tools.

Cyberbullying example: sad teen seeing mean messages on phone

Online harassment 🔊

➕

/ˈɒn.laɪn həˈræs.mənt/

The act of repeatedly and intentionally harassing, threatening, or embarrassing someone using digital platforms.

📁 Category：Behaviors & Actions 🔖 Level：Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

Combination of 'cyber' (related to computers/internet) and 'bullying' (aggressive behavior).

💡 Mnemonic

Imagine cyber space bullies hiding behind screens, sending repeated hurtful messages.

📖 Example

Cyberbullying can have a serious impact on a young person's mental health, so she decided to talk to her teacher about the mean messages she was receiving online. 🔊 Cyberbullying can have a serious impact on a young person's mental health, so she decided to talk to her teacher about the mean messages she was receiving online.

🔗 Collocations

victim of cyberbullying – victim of cyberbullying

cyberbullying prevention – cyberbullying prevention

report cyberbullying – report cyberbullying

🔄 Synonyms

online harassment (n.) – Repeated aggressive actions through digital channels.

digital abuse (n.) – Use of technology to harm or control someone.

trolling (n.) – Deliberate provocation or insult online.

🚫 Antonyms

digital kindness (n.) – Positive and supportive online behavior.

online respect (n.) – Treating others with courtesy in digital spaces.

🌱 Derivatives

cyberbully (n.) – A person who engages in cyberbullying.

cyberbullied (adj.) – Having been a victim of cyberbullying.

📖 Cultural Story

Emerged in early 2000s with rise of internet. Gained prominence after teenage harassment cases, prompting anti-bullying laws and awareness campaigns.