prosecute Meaning, Definition & Usage

verb conduct a prosecution in a court of law
verb bring a criminal action against (in a trial)
- The State of California prosecuted O.J. Simpson
verb carry out or participate in an activity; be involved in
pursue; engage.
- She pursued many activities
- They engaged in a discussion

L. prosecutus, p. p. of prosequi to follow, pursue. See Pursue.

imperfect & past participle Prosecuted ; present participle & verbal noun Prosecuting

To follow or pursue with a view to reach, execute, or accomplish; to endeavor to obtain or complete; to carry on; to continue; as, to prosecute a scheme, hope, or claim.
I am beloved Hermia; Why should not I, then, prosecute my right ? Shak.
To seek to obtain by legal process; as, to prosecute a right or a claim in a court of law.
(Law) To pursue with the intention of punishing; to accuse of some crime or breach of law, or to pursue for redress or punishment, before a legal tribunal; to proceed against judicially; as, to prosecute a man for trespass, or for a riot.
To acquit themselves and prosecute their foes. Milton.

To follow after. Obs. Latimer.
(Law) To institute and carry on a legal prosecution; as, to prosecute for public offenses. Blackstone.