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
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.
To them, the team feels like an extension of the government, whose persecution drove many to flee the country. — Jesus Jiménez, New York Times, 30 June 2026 The cult goes to trial, citing religious persecution. — Ew Staff, Entertainment Weekly, 25 June 2026 In each case, a politician is appealing over institutional bodies’ heads to the people and framing the appeal itself as proof of his or her persecution. — Melissa Bell, CNN Money, 8 July 2026 Anyone who thinks that the differences between these sects are minor is invited to read about the wars, massacres and persecutions that erupted between them in the 16th and 17th centuries. — Kenneth Seeskin, Chicago Tribune, 5 July 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 10 Jul. 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

More from Merriam-Webster on persecution

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for persecution

Nglish: Translation of persecution for Spanish Speakers

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