Are Sexual Innuendos at Work Considered Sexual Harassment?

By Chris Heikaus Weaver

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Sexual Harassment

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Last Modified on Nov 02, 2025

There’s a fine line between jokes that build camaraderie in the workplace and those that cross into sexual harassment. That line gets a bit blurrier when jokes or statements are less straightforward. One of your coworkers might make an innuendo in conversation, hinting at something less than appropriate for the workplace. But are sexual innuendos at work considered sexual harassment? Learn more about sexual harassment laws and how a lawyer can help you.

What Is Sexual Harassment?

Sexual harassment is a broad term that covers a host of actions and behaviors. California is no stranger to these issues, as there were 497 sexual harassment complaints in the state in 2022. Obviously, inappropriate physical contact and blatant sexual conversations are harassment, but more subtle actions can also be considered sexual harassment.

Sexually suggestive remarks like innuendos and jokes can be considered sexual harassment, but there is a key factor in that determination: the behavior must be unwelcome. So, if you consent to physical contact or join in on the joke, it would not be sexual harassment. Of course, workplace sexual harassment isn’t always cut-and-dry. It’s wise to consult a sexual harassment attorney if you believe you may have witnessed or been the victim of such actions.

California Laws on Sexual Harassment in the Workplace

California’s sexual harassment laws split harassment into two categories in the workplace: quid pro quo and hostile work environment. Quid pro quo sexual harassment is a threat of punishment or promise of reward in exchange for sexual acts. This type of harassment is less common, though it is no less severe.

Hostile work environment (HWE) harassment essentially means that the inappropriate behaviors and the workplace become inseparable. HWE must be severe or pervasive harassment that is ongoing and unwelcome. Sporadic behavior or isolated events are not enough to qualify for HWE, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t worth mentioning to a supervisor or the human resources department.

What to Do if You Experience Sexual Harassment at Work

If you experience sexual harassment at work, know that you aren’t alone. Reports have found that over 86% of women and 53% of men in California have experienced workplace harassment. The first step is to confront the harasser if possible. This may not always be an option, especially if you fear for your safety. In that case, report the incident to your supervisor or the human resources department. They may launch an investigation and take appropriate action. Sexual harassment penalties should be swift and severe.

If the company refuses or fails to act, you may have grounds for a lawsuit. Contact an attorney to learn about your options and protect your rights.

Hire a Sexual Harassment Lawyer

Jokes in the workplace are a great way to facilitate teamwork and build relationships, but innuendos should never take a sexual turn that makes others feel uncomfortable. Sexual innuendos can be considered sexual harassment, and it’s important to know what to do if you feel you’ve been a victim of inappropriate behavior. Contact the team at Aitken Campbell Heikaus Weaver, LLP today if you believe you’ve been the victim of sexual harassment.