persecution

noun

per·​se·​cu·​tion ˌpər-si-ˈkyü-shən How to pronounce persecution (audio)
Synonyms of persecution
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.
For advocates who work with LGBTQ+ immigrants, the couple’s detention reflects broader concerns about how immigration enforcement affects a population that has often fled persecution because of their identity. — Laura Rodríguez Presa, Chicago Tribune, 5 Aug. 2026 But Stephanie Nelson said the case was about accountability, not persecution. — Sara-James Ranta, The Orlando Sentinel, 5 Aug. 2026 The beloved spice blend was invented in 1940 by Gustav Brunn, a German Jewish refugee who fled Nazi persecution and landed in Baltimore. — Nicole Letts, Southern Living, 31 July 2026 Germany and Austria have unique programs that offer citizenship to the descendants of anyone who was persecuted or feared persecution by the Nazi regime between 1933 and 1945. — Jessica Puckett, Condé Nast Traveler, 30 July 2026 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

Rhymes for persecution

See All Rhymes for persecution

Browse Nearby Words

persecutingly
persecution
persecutional
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Persecution.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/persecution. Accessed 6 Aug. 2026.

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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

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for persecution

Nglish: Translation of persecution for Spanish Speakers

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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