Definition

1. Noun:
   • A legal term for sexual intercourse with a person below the legal age of consent: This refers to the criminal act of an adult engaging in sexual intercourse with a minor, regardless of the minor's apparent willingness.
   • Lewd or lascivious physical contact with a child's sexual organs: This broader legal meaning can refer to inappropriate sexual touching of a child by an adult that does not necessarily involve sexual intercourse.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The defendant was charged with carnal abuse of a minor.
  • The law defines certain acts of molestation as carnal abuse, even without penetration.

Advanced Usage

• Legal Context: The term is primarily used in formal legal, judicial, or law enforcement contexts to describe specific criminal charges. It is not a term for casual conversation.
• "Carnal knowledge" as a related legal term: This is a closely related term often used in statutes to mean sexual intercourse, forming the basis for charges like "carnal knowledge of a minor."

Variants and Related Words

• Carnal (adj): Relating to physical, especially sexual, needs and activities.
  • carnal desires
• Abuse (n): Cruel and violent treatment of a person or animal; the improper use of something.
  • child abuse, substance abuse

Synonyms

• Statutory rape: A more common legal term for sexual intercourse with a minor.
• Child molestation: A broader term for sexual abuse of a child.
• Sexual assault: A general term for any non-consensual sexual act.

Important Note

• This term describes a serious criminal act. Its usage is almost exclusively within legal frameworks. It is critical to understand the gravity and specific legal definitions associated with this term.

Noun

1. sexual intercourse with a person (girl or boy) who has not reached the age of consent (even if both parties participate willingly)
2. any lascivious contact by an adult with the sexual organs of a child (especially not involving sexual intercourse)