Meaning & use
persecute
Last updated
To subject someone to hostile, unfair treatment, especially because of their race, religion, or political beliefs.
See it in a sentence
The regime persecuted anyone who publicly criticized its policies.
Throughout history, minority religious groups have often been persecuted for their beliefs.
A note on using this word
Distinct from 'prosecute' (to bring legal charges), a common spelling and meaning confusion.
Words with a similar meaning
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Words with an opposite meaning
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