Legal Definitions - menacing

Definition: Menacing is an attempt to commit common-law assault. It is used in jurisdictions that have defined assault to include battery. Assault is the threat or use of force on another that causes that person to have a reasonable apprehension of imminent harmful or offensive contact. It is the act of putting another person in reasonable fear or apprehension of an immediate battery by means of an act amounting to an attempt or threat to commit a battery.

Example: If someone threatens to punch another person, that is considered menacing. Even if they do not physically harm the person, the threat alone can cause fear and apprehension.

Explanation: Menacing is a type of assault that involves the attempt or threat of physical harm. It is a criminal offense that can cause fear and apprehension in the victim. The example illustrates how a threat of physical harm can be considered menacing, even if no physical harm is actually inflicted.