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

As the song’s music video played in the background, showing the violent persecution of two gay men, a pride flag unfurled from the microphone stand. —Jake Harris, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 29 Apr. 2024

As Jews across the country gather to celebrate Passover, a holiday that commemorates the exodus of Jews from Egypt where they were enslaved, the millennia-long persecution of Jews is particularly resonant for many. —USA TODAY, 28 Apr. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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