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Definition of prosecution

prosecution

/ˌprɑː.sɪˈkjuː.ʃən/
pros · e · cu · tion
Plural:prosecutions
•
Adjective:prosecutorial
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prosecution Lexical Profile

prosecution Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The institution and conducting of legal proceedings against someone in respect of a criminal charge.

Example

"The company faces criminal prosecution for violating environmental safety laws."

2

The party instituting or conducting legal proceedings against someone in a criminal lawsuit (typically preceded by 'the').

Example

"The prosecution called its final witness to the stand before resting its case."

3

The continuation or pursuit of an activity, plan, or course of action with a view to its completion.

Example

"In the prosecution of their research, the scientists traveled to remote arctic stations."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for prosecution
Antonyms
View all antonyms for prosecution

Word Nuance & Usage

Do not confuse 'prosecution' (the legal act of bringing criminal charges in court) with 'persecution' (hostile treatment or oppression, especially on the basis of race, religion, or political beliefs).

• Rhymes for prosecution

• Nearby Words

prose
prosecco
prosecute
prosecution
prosecutor
prosecutorial
prosecutrix

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the 16th century from Late Latin prosecutio, a noun of action from the verb prosequi ('to follow, accompany, or pursue'), formed from pro- ('forward') and sequi ('to follow').

Cite this Entry

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