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

Most historians blame Mao's policies for tens of millions of deaths through famine and politically motivated persecution. — Ian Miller Outkick, FOXNews.com, 28 Oct. 2026

But those laws must be enforced consistently along with our obligations to protect people from persecution or torture, including when removal to a third country could expose them to such harm or lead to their forcible return to Nicaragua. — Lynn Northcutt Vega, Sun Sentinel, 28 Oct. 2026

Pollokshields is the most diverse neighborhood in Scotland, with 86 languages spoken among its residents, and has always been seen as something of a safe haven for those fleeing persecution. — Christian Zilko, IndieWire, 27 Oct. 2026

All the proceeds from the shop will benefit Rainbow Railroad to support LGBTQIA+ people facing persecution. — Kanika Talwar, Footwear News, 27 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