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.
Damico said the immigration advocacy work is a part of the DNA of The Workers Circle, which is a 125-year-old organization founded by Eastern European immigrants who came to the United States fleeing persecution and seeking democratic freedoms, according to Damico. Miami Herald, 24 Oct. 2025 The persecution feels familiar to his family. Vidushi Mishti Sharma, Rolling Stone, 24 Oct. 2025 In July this year, the International Criminal Court sought arrest warrants for two of the top Taliban leaders, citing the persecution of women and girls as evidence of crimes against humanity. Helen Regan, CNN Money, 14 Oct. 2025 The October 7 attack tore open a wound that runs deep in the Jewish heart, shaped by generations who have known persecution and fear. Dafna Michaelson Jenet, Denver Post, 12 Oct. 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Persecution.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/persecution. Accessed 29 Oct. 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

More from Merriam-Webster on persecution

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