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 Assembly Bill 2867 makes clear that California law requires that Nazi looted artworks such as the Pissarro — as well as other valuables stolen during past or future acts of genocide or political persecution — be returned to their rightful owners. Kevin Rector, Los Angeles Times, 17 Sep. 2024 The goal is simple but ambitious: to document the harsh realities of modern Russia, from the war in Ukraine to political persecution, and make these works accessible to the Russian people. Michele Kelemen, NPR, 11 Sep. 2024 Details of the accord have never been made public and many within China’s underground congregations who have remained loyal to Rome and long faced persecution fear being abandoned. Christopher Lamb, CNN, 2 Sep. 2024 The protests pushed back against the nation’s persecution of Oromo people, who make up a third of the country’s population but have faced a history of marginalization. Armani Syed, TIME, 31 July 2024 See all Example Sentences for persecution 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'persecution.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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 1 Oct. 2024.

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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