persecution
|per-se-cu-tion|
🇺🇸
/ˌpɜːr.sɪˈkjuː.ʃən/
🇬🇧
/ˌpɜː.sɪˈkjuː.ʃən/
hostility and ill-treatment
Etymology
'persecution' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'persecutio,' where 'per-' meant 'through' and 'sequi' meant 'to follow.'
'persecutio' transformed into the Old French word 'persecucion,' and eventually became the modern English word 'persecution' through Middle English.
Initially, it meant 'to follow with harmful intent,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'hostility and ill-treatment.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the act of subjecting someone to hostility and ill-treatment, especially because of their race, political or religious beliefs.
The persecution of minorities has been a persistent issue throughout history.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45