Vocabulary word Persecute - Practice with online flashcards, spelling bees and vocabulary quizzes

Character Traits and Behavior

Learning activities:

Crisis and Opposition

Learning activities:

Emotional Intensity and Reactions

Learning activities:

GRE 3 (Graduate Record Examination)

Learning activities:

Hostility and Brutality

Learning activities:

Hostility and Opposition

Learning activities:

Turmoil and Treachery

Learning activities:

Dictionary Definition of persecute

To subject someone to hostility or ill-treatment, often because of their race, religion, or political beliefs.
"The regime sought to persecute journalists who reported on their corruption."

Detailed Meaning of Persecute

When someone is persecuted, they may be harassed, intimidated, or even physically harmed because of who they are or what they believe. The term "persecute" can be used to describe a wide range of actions, such as discrimination, exclusion, or violence. Persecution can occur in a wide range of contexts, such as in the workplace, in social settings, or in a legal system. Overall, the term "persecute" implies a sense of hostility or aggression towards someone, often because of their identity or beliefs, which can result in serious harm and injustice.

Example Sentences for Persecute

1. They persecute individuals based on their religious beliefs.
2. The government authorities persecute political dissidents.
3. The group was known to persecute minority communities.
4. The dictator ordered his forces to persecute anyone who opposed him.
5. The religious extremists persecute those who do not adhere to their strict doctrines.
6. The villagers were known to persecute outsiders who settled in their community.

Origin and Etymology of Persecute

The verb 'persecute' has its etymological roots in the Latin word 'persequi,' which is formed by combining 'per,' meaning 'through,' and 'sequi,' meaning 'to follow' or 'to pursue.' In its original Latin sense, 'persequi' meant to pursue or follow someone persistently, often with negative intent. Over time, this term evolved and took on a darker connotation, as it came to signify the act of subjecting someone to hostility or ill-treatment, particularly due to their race, religion, or political beliefs. The etymology of 'persecute' highlights the notion of relentless pursuit and mistreatment, reflecting its historical association with the targeting and harassment of individuals or groups based on their characteristics or beliefs.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the verb persecute:

assist

support

oppress

defend

Try Again!

Correct!

Continue Quiz

More Usage Examples of Persecute

1. The monarch was known to persecute those who challenged his authority.
2. The tyrant used his power to persecute his political rivals.
3. The corrupt officials were known to persecute whistleblowers who exposed their misconduct.
4. The oppressive regime persecutes citizens who express dissenting opinions.
5. The medieval inquisitors were known to persecute heretics.
6. The radical group aims to persecute those who hold different ideological views.
7. The ethnic majority was known to persecute minority groups in the region.
8. The school bully would often persecute weaker students.
9. The autocratic leader sought to persecute journalists critical of his government.
10. The dictator's regime continued to persecute political dissidents.
11. Throughout history, religious minorities have often been persecuted.
12. Discrimination is a form of persecuting individuals unfairly.
13. They vowed to fight for justice and end the persecution.
14. The organization worked tirelessly to help persecuted refugees.
15. Freedom of speech protects against government persecution.
16. Persecuting innocent people is a grave injustice.
17. The court convicted those who had persecuted others.
18. The refugees sought asylum to escape persecution.
19. Human rights advocates raise awareness about persecution.
20. The community came together to support persecuted members.
21. Racism and xenophobia can lead to the persecution of minorities.
22. Persecuting individuals based on their beliefs is unethical.
23. The world condemns persecution and calls for tolerance.
24. Persecution often results in physical and emotional harm.
25. The international community must intervene to stop persecution.
26. Persecuting someone for their identity is a violation of human rights.
27. The country's history is marked by periods of persecution.
28. Victims of persecution deserve protection and justice.
29. Persecuting others only perpetuates division and conflict.