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.
The junta's weaponization of religion through its promotion of Burman Buddhist nationalist ideology has perpetuated the persecution of ethnic and religious minorities for decades. Justin Gest, Newsweek, 20 Jan. 2025 The persecution prompted thousands of Uyghurs to flee. Nyrola Elimä, New York Times, 19 Jan. 2025 Advertisement Bolsonaro responded to the verdict Thursday on X by accusing Brazil’s judicial system of political persecution against him, comparing his situation to legal cases in the U.S. against Trump. Gabriela Sá Pessoa and Mauricio Savarese, Los Angeles Times, 17 Jan. 2025 Bolsonaro responded to the verdict Thursday on X by accusing Brazil’s judicial system of political persecution against him, comparing his situation to legal cases in the U.S. against Trump. Fox News, 16 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 27 Jan. 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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