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 persecution of witches accelerated in lockstep with the increasing privatization of property in the sixteenth century. — Literary Hub, 14 Oct. 2026

Built and expanded over centuries, Derinkuyu offered a haven for entire communities to vanish underground during times of war or religious persecution, sealing themselves in behind massive stone doors. — Maya Chawla, Architectural Digest, 12 Oct. 2026

Human Rights Watch’s report says some people deported to third countries face detention, abuse and the prospect of persecution. — Mark Banchereau, Los Angeles Times, 8 Oct. 2026

Human Rights Watch's report says some people deported to third countries face detention, abuse and the prospect of persecution. — ABC News, 8 Oct. 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