ˌ ̷ ̷ ̷ ̷ˈkyüshən noun
( -s )
Etymology: Middle English persecucioun, from Middle French persecution, from Late Latin persecution-, persecutio, from Latin, action of pursuing, from persecutus (past participle of persequi to continue to follow, pursue, from per-, prefix denoting completion or perfection + sequi to follow) + -ion-, -io -ion — more at per- , sue
1.
a. : the act or practice of persecuting: as
(1) : the infliction of sufferings, harm, or death on those who differ (as in origin, religion, or social outlook) in a way regarded as offensive or meriting extirpation
(2) obsolete : a carrying out (as of an aim or course of action) : prosecution
b. : a campaign having for its object the subjugation or extirpation of the adherents of a religion or way of life
pogroms and persecutions in imperial Russia
2. : the condition of being persecuted, harassed, or annoyed
live through persecution and exile