persecute
Translation
to persecute, to harass, to oppress
Examples
They were persecuted for their religious beliefs.
They were persecuted for their religious beliefs.
He felt persecuted by his boss's constant criticism.
He felt persecuted by his boss's constant criticism.
Grammar Patterns
((sb.)) <for sth.> to treat (sb.) cruelly because of their beliefs or race. They were persecuted for their religious beliefs.
Similar Words
Synonyms: oppress, harass, torment; Antonyms: protect, support
Etymology
From Latin 'per-' (thoroughly) + 'sequi' (to follow), meaning 'to pursue relentlessly'.
Memory Tips
Think of 'per-' as 'persistently' and 'secute' like 'seek'. To persistently seek someone out to harm them.