date-rape
UK[ˈdeɪt reɪp]US[ˈdeɪt reɪp]
n
A rape committed by an acquaintance, especially during a social engagement.
v
To rape (someone) while on a date or social outing.
Morpheme Breakdown
date
rape
date
social appointment
rape
sexual assault
Etymology
The term "date-rape" is a modern English compound, emerging in the latter half of the 20th century as social and legal awareness of sexual violence expanded. It combines "date," from the Latin data via the concept of a "given" or appointed time for a meeting, with "rape," from the Latin rapere, meaning to seize or carry off by force. The compound specifically contrasts the context—a supposedly consensual social encounter—with the violent criminal act, highlighting the betrayal of trust inherent in the situation. Its formation follows a straightforward descriptive pattern in English, specifying the relational context (date) of the generic crime (rape).
Analysis
Structure: date (social appointment) + rape (sexual assault)
- date: From Latin data (given), via Old French date. In this compound, it functions as a noun meaning a pre-arranged social meeting, typically between romantic partners.
- rape: From Latin rapere (to seize, carry off). In this compound, it functions as a noun/verb denoting the act of forced sexual intercourse.
Examples
The campus workshop focused on preventing date-rape and promoting consent.
He was convicted for using a drug to date-rape his victim.
Awareness campaigns have helped to demystify the myths surrounding date-rape.