persecution

noun

per·​se·​cu·​tion ˌpər-si-ˈkyü-shən How to pronounce persecution (audio)
Synonyms of persecution
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
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Rights groups have condemned the deportations, saying returnees – particularly the Rohingya, a Muslim minority group that accounts for most of Malaysia’s refugees – will face violence, persecution, and forced conscription. — Lindsey McGinnis, Christian Science Monitor, 19 Oct. 2026 The film ends in 1997 with a young African boy fleeing persecution into the same theater, drawing a parallel between past and present. — Elsa Keslassy, Variety, 17 Oct. 2026 Russell’s film is also a response to political persecution and the conveniently destructive power of unproven accusations. — Bilge Ebiri, Vulture, 16 Oct. 2026 The torture accusations substantially broaden the case, bringing allegations of political persecution and abuse in Venezuelan detention facilities into a prosecution initially centered on international drug trafficking. — Antonio María Delgado, Miami Herald, 15 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for persecution

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of persecution was in the 14th century

Rhymes for persecution

See All Rhymes for persecution

Browse Nearby Words

persecutingly
persecution
persecutional
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Persecution.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/persecution. Accessed 22 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

persecution

noun
per·​se·​cu·​tion ˌpər-si-ˈkyü-shən How to pronounce persecution (audio)
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

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