persecution

noun

per·​se·​cu·​tion ˌpər-si-ˈkyü-shən How to pronounce persecution (audio)
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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Early leaders, like Margaret Fell and George Fox, wrote letters to King Charles II of England in the mid-17th century, defending their beliefs, including pacifism, in the face of persecution. Joanne M. Pierce, The Conversation, 28 Jan. 2025 The eclecticism across our slate includes movies like ‘Longlegs,’ which is by an incredible director, and sits right next to ‘The Seed of the Sacred Fig’ by Mohammad Rasoulof, who made the film in Iran in secret while under threat of persecution and escaped the country. William Earl, Variety, 28 Jan. 2025 Then and now, the particulars have never really matched people’s sense of persecution. Kaitlyn Tiffany, The Atlantic, 28 Jan. 2025 Help those who are fleeing war zones and persecution in their own lands to find compassion and welcome here. Stephanie McNeal, Glamour, 27 Jan. 2025 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

Dictionary Entries Near persecution

Cite this Entry

“Persecution.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/persecution. Accessed 11 Feb. 2025.

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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