Date Rape Definition and Legal Meaning

On this page, you'll find the legal definition and meaning of Date Rape, written in plain English, along with examples of how it is used.

What is Date Rape?

also termed acquaintance-rape, it refers to non-consensual sex between two socially acquainted individuals; but wherein the consent for sex has not been there. Legally there is no distinction between rape (committed by someone unknown) and date-rape, though the standard of proof required for later is harder to meet.

History and Meaning of Date Rape

Date rape, also known as acquaintance-rape, refers to non-consensual sex between two socially acquainted individuals. It is a form of sexual assault in which the perpetrator knows the victim, such as a friend or romantic partner, but the victim has not given consent for sexual activity. The term "date rape" gained widespread recognition in the 1970s when feminists began raising awareness about sexual violence against women.

Date rape is often committed by someone the victim knows, such as a friend, acquaintance, or romantic partner, rather than a stranger. It can occur in various settings and situations, such as at a party or in a dating relationship. Victims of date rape may feel confused or ashamed, and may blame themselves for the assault.

Examples of Date Rape

  1. After a night out drinking with friends, Jane wakes up to find that she had sex with her friend Jack even though she doesn't remember giving him consent.

  2. Lisa goes out on a date with a man she met on a dating app. Once they are alone, the man becomes forceful and has sex with her without her consent.

  3. Tom and Sarah are in a relationship, but Sarah tells Tom that she doesn't want to have sex tonight. Tom disregards Sarah's wishes and has sex with her anyway.

Legal Terms Similar to Date Rape

  1. Sexual Assault: Unwanted sexual behavior that occurs without the consent of the victim.
  2. Statutory Rape: Sexual activity with a minor, even if they have given consent, because they are below the age of legal consent.
  3. Domestic Violence: A pattern of abusive behavior used by one partner to gain or maintain power and control over the other partner in a domestic relationship.