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.
Harassment, discrimination and persecution of Afghans is commonplace. Betsy Joles, NPR, 7 Mar. 2025 Refugees are people who have been forced to flee their homes due to violence, war or persecution, according to the International Rescue Committee. Cody Copeland, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 4 Mar. 2025 The refugee program, created by Congress in 1980, is a form of legal migration to the U.S. for people displaced by war, natural disaster or persecution — a process that often takes years and involves significant vetting. Gene Johnson, Chicago Tribune, 28 Feb. 2025 Researchers and advocates also say that without the possibility of applying for asylum in the U.S., migrants face a range of repercussions in their home countries from potential persecution to death. Kimmy Yam, NBC News, 26 Feb. 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 13 Mar. 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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