persecution

noun

per·​se·​cu·​tion ˌpər-si-ˈkyü-shən 

1

: the act or practice of persecuting especially those who differ in origin, religion, or social outlook

2

: the condition of being persecuted, harassed, or annoyed

Examples of persecution in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The international film community—including the Cannes, Berlin, and Venice festivals and the American Cinematheque—spoke out against these persecutions. —Richard Brody, New Yorker, 27 Mar. 2026

Between persecution and suspicion These dynamics become especially visible in moments of enforcement, where the gap between political rhetoric and immigration policy comes into sharp relief. —Candace Lukasik, The Conversation, 27 Mar. 2026

One of the darkest chapters in American moviemaking history, the Hollywood Blacklist was a period of political persecution starting in 1947, where studios banned individuals suspected of Communist ties. —Zac Ntim, Deadline, 26 Mar. 2026

The family should move out of Paris to a place where Daniel would not have to worry about persecution. —Michelle F. Solomon, Miami Herald, 26 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for persecution

• absolution
• allocution
• attribution
• comminution
• constitution
• contribution
• convolution
• destitution
• devolution
• diminution
• dissolution
• distribution

Kids Definition

persecution

noun

per·​se·​cu·​tion ˌpər-si-ˈkyü-shən 

1

: the act or practice of persecuting

2

: the condition of being persecuted

Legal Definition

persecution

noun

per·​se·​cu·​tion

: punishment or harassment usually of a severe nature on the basis of race, religion, or political opinion in one's country of origin

claimed persecution and sought asylum