persecuted; persecuting
Definition of persecute
1
: to harass or punish in a manner designed to injure, grieve, or afflict
specifically
: to cause to suffer because of belief
2
: to annoy with persistent or urgent approaches (such as attacks, pleas, or importunities) : pester
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Merriam-Webster unabridged
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Time Traveler for persecute
The first known use of persecute was in the 15th century
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