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.
In September 2023, Savannah Chrisley went on a podcast and claimed that her parents, reality stars Todd and Julie, were in prison due to political persecution. Gene Maddaus, Variety, 11 June 2025 There are also exemptions for immigrant visas for ethnic and religious minorities facing persecution in Iran, as well as Afghan nationals who can prove they were employed by or on behalf of the U.S. government during its military campaign in Afghanistan starting in 2001. Rachel Treisman, NPR, 9 June 2025 Indeed, as is clear from recent ICC communications, their focus is on the Taliban since their takeover in August 2021, and in particular, the treatment of women and girls as crimes against humanity of gender persecution. Dr. Ewelina U. Ochab, Forbes.com, 8 June 2025 The Maryland sheet metal worker was released from prison in El Salvador and put on a plane back to the U.S. two months after he was deported to his homeland in defiance of an order not to return him there for fear of persecution, ABC News first reported. Dave Goldiner, New York Daily News, 6 June 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

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Cite this Entry

“Persecution.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/persecution. Accessed 17 Jun. 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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