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Definition of persecution

persecution

/ˌpɜːr.səˈkjuː.ʃən/
per · se · cu · tion
Plural:persecutions
•
Adjective:persecutory
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persecution Lexical Profile

persecution Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

Hostility and ill-treatment, especially on the basis of race, religion, or political beliefs; systematic oppression.

Example

"Many early settlers left their homeland to escape religious persecution."

2

Persistent annoyance, badgering, or harassment.

Example

"The celebrity complained about the relentless persecution by tabloid photographers outside her home."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for persecution
Antonyms
View all antonyms for persecution

Word Nuance & Usage

Do not confuse 'persecution' (hostile, unjust mistreatment, often due to beliefs or identity) with 'prosecution' (the formal legal process of bringing criminal charges against someone in court).

• Rhymes for persecution

• Nearby Words

perrier
perry
persecute
persecution
persecutor
perseverance
perseverant

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed from Old French 'persecucion', from Late Latin 'persecutionem' ('a following after, pursuit, or chasing'), derived from the Latin verb 'persequi' ('to follow persistently, pursue, or hunt down').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Persecution. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/persecution
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