Persecute

Origin

From French persécuter, from Latin persequor ("follow up, pursue"), from -("through") + sequor("follow") (English sequel). Compare prosecute.

Full definition of persecute

Verb

1. To pursue in a manner to injure, grieve, or afflict; to beset with cruelty or malignity; to harass; especially, to afflict, harass, punish, or put to death for one's race, sexual identity, adherence to a particular religious creed, or mode of worship."Do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you." – Matt. 5:44.
2. To harass with importunity; to pursue with persistent solicitations; to annoy.

Synonyms

• oppress, harass, distress, worry, annoy

Related terms

• prosecute
• sequel