persecution

noun

per·​se·​cu·​tion ˌpər-si-ˈkyü-shən 

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

But the plight of the displaced today, whether from war, genocide, persecution or prejudice, will always call to me as a subject. —Literary Hub, 28 Apr. 2026

Reparations will support education, economic aid and mental health services, with programs specifically targeting women and girls who endured systematic persecution by extremists in Timbuktu. —Molly Quell, Los Angeles Times, 28 Apr. 2026

Too many Americans know little about Jewish history beyond persecution and tragedy. —Laurence Milstein, Sun Sentinel, 28 Apr. 2026

This includes certain dual citizens of other countries, those facing persecution in Iran and those traveling on specific visas. —Ximena Bustillo, NPR, 28 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for persecution

• absolution
• allocution
• attribution
• comminution
• constitution
• contribution
• convolution
• destitution
• devolution
• diminution
• dissolution
• distribution

Kids Definition

persecution

noun

per·​se·​cu·​tion ˌpər-si-ˈkyü-shən 

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