rapist

noun

rap·​ist ˈrā-pist How to pronounce rapist (audio)
plural rapists
Synonyms of rapistnext
: 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.
An impromptu blind date with a handsome rapist ends with Esther punching him square in the nose, his blood gushing through her fingers. — Literary Hub, 1 July 2026 Alice Sebold returned to campus for the fall semester that year, aware that nobody was looking for her rapist. — Joaquin Sapien, ProPublica, 30 June 2026 Campaign ​posters proclaimed only 10% of incomers were needed skilled workers and that asylum seekers were more likely to be rapists. — CNN Money, 14 June 2026 Our law enforcement officers are on the frontlines arresting terrorists, gang members, murderers, pedophiles and rapists. — Arkansas Online, 28 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for rapist

Word History

Etymology

rape entry 2 + -ist entry 1

First Known Use

1867, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of rapist was in 1867

Rhymes for rapist

See All Rhymes for rapist

Browse Nearby Words

rapini
rapist
raploch
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Rapist.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rapist. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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Medical Definition

rapist

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

More from Merriam-Webster on rapist

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for rapist

Nglish: Translation of rapist for Spanish Speakers

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