v.tr. 1 (also absol.) a institute legal proceedings against (a person). b institute a prosecution with reference to (a claim, crime, etc.) (decided not to prosecute). 2 follow up, pursue (an inquiry, studies, etc.). 3 carry on (a trade, pursuit, etc.). prosecutable adj.
[ ME f. L prosequi prosecut- (as PRO-(1), sequi follow) ]