persecute

Etymology

Borrowed from Middle French persécuter, from Ecclesiastical Latin persecutor, from Latin persequor, persecutus (“follow up, pursue”), from per- (“through”) + sequor (“follow”) (English sequel). Compare prosecute. Cf. also pursue.

verb

  1. To pursue in a manner to do harm or cruelty to; especially, because of the victim's race, sexual identity, or adherence to a particular belief.
    He who persecutes one will persecute all.
  2. To harass with importunity; to pursue with persistent solicitations; to annoy.
  3. To kill many of one species of animal, with the intent of removing them from human habitats.
    Humans have been persecuting wolves in this forest for centuries.

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