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Persecuting Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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persecuting

[ˈpɜːrsɪkjuːtɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

law enforcement

Persecuting refers to the act of subjecting someone to hostility and ill-treatment, especially because of their race or political or religious beliefs. This term is often associated with continuous efforts to oppress or harass individuals or groups. In legal contexts, it may refer to the process of pursuing legal action against someone accused of a crime. Persecution can occur at various levels, including personal, local, or governmental.

Synonyms

harassing, hounding, maltreating, mistreating, oppressing.

Examples of usage

  • The authorities were persecuting the activists for their beliefs.
  • She felt persecuted by her peers for being different.
  • The regime was known for persecuting dissidents.
  • They fled the country to escape religious persecution.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The word has roots in Latin 'persecutio', which means 'to pursue' or 'to follow after'.
  • Throughout history, persecuting has often been tied to religious intolerance, with many groups suffering for their beliefs.
  • The term has been notably used in legal contexts, especially concerning human rights and social justice.

Psychology

  • People who are persecuted often experience trauma, which can have long-lasting effects on mental health.
  • Studies show that victims of persistent persecution may develop feelings of isolation and helplessness.
  • The cycle of persecution can also lead to aggressors justifying their behavior due to societal or cultural beliefs.

Literature

  • Classic novels often explore themes of persecution, highlighting the struggles of characters against societal pressures.
  • A famous example is 'The Diary of a Young Girl' by Anne Frank, showcasing the harsh realities of religious persecution during WWII.
  • Shakespeare's works frequently delve into the idea of persecution, reflecting conflicts between personal beliefs and societal norms.

Pop Culture

  • Films like 'Schindler's List' depict the extreme consequences of persecution during the Holocaust.
  • Songs such as 'Fight the Power' by Public Enemy address themes of social justice and stand against persecution.
  • In modern media, many characters symbolize the fight against persecution, appealing to universal themes of resilience.

Global Issues

  • Persecution remains a significant topic in discussions about refugees who flee their homes to escape violence.
  • Organizations like Amnesty International work to combat persecution worldwide, advocating for universal human rights.
  • In various countries, minority groups continue to face persecution, emphasizing the ongoing need for social awareness and advocacy.

Origin of 'persecuting'

The word 'persecute' originates from the Latin term 'persecutus', the past participle of 'persequi', which means 'to follow through'. This Latin root combines 'per-', meaning 'through', and 'sequi', meaning 'to follow'. The word was adapted into Middle English in the late 14th century, retaining its meaning of pursuing or following someone to afflict harm or distress upon them. Historically, persecution has been a prominent theme in religious contexts, where individuals or groups were often targeted because of their beliefs, leading to societal and cultural ramifications. Over time, the term has expanded to encompass a broader range of contexts, including political and social spheres.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,109, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.