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persecute

0 synonyms and 0 antonyms for persecute, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.

Verb — To treat someone cruelly or unfairly over a long period, often because of their race, religion, or beliefs.

We haven't recorded synonyms for persecute yet. You can still read its full definition, where it comes from, or words that rhyme with it.

How to use persecute

The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.

persecuted for their beliefs persecute a minority

Etymology

From Latin persequi, "to pursue relentlessly," from per- ("through") + sequi ("to follow").

Full origin of persecute →

Frequently asked questions

What does “persecute” mean?

The word “persecute” means to treat someone cruelly or unfairly over a long period, often because of their race, religion, or beliefs. In plain terms, to repeatedly harm or harass someone, often because of who they are.

How do you pronounce “persecute”?

“Persecute” is pronounced PUR-sihk-yoot (/ˈpɝsəkjut/ in IPA).

How do you use “persecute” in a sentence?

Here is “persecute” used in a sentence: “The regime persecuted anyone who spoke out against it.”

What part of speech is “persecute”?

“Persecute” is a verb.

Where does the word “persecute” come from?

The word “persecute” comes from Latin. From Latin persequi, "to pursue relentlessly," from per- ("through") + sequi ("to follow").

How many meanings does “persecute” have?

“Persecute” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to treat someone cruelly or unfairly over a long period, often because of their race, religion, or beliefs.

Related words

persecutable persecution

Nearby words

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Synonyms and antonyms from Wiktionary, CC BY-SA.