prosecute

Meanings

1. 1
   verb

   bring a criminal action against (in a trial)

   The State of California prosecuted O.J. Simpson

2. 2
   verb

   To start criminal proceedings against.

   to prosecute a man for trespass, or for a riot

3. 3
   verb

   To charge, try.

   The Vigilante is prosecuted in Federal Court under a lynch bill and winds up in a Federal Nut House specially designed for the containment of ghosts […]

4. 4
   verb

   To seek to obtain by legal process.

   to prosecute a right or a claim in a court of law

5. 5
   verb

   To pursue something to the end.

   to prosecute a scheme, hope, or an investigation

6. 6
   verb

   carry out or participate in an activity

7. 7
   verb

   conduct a prosecution in a court of law

Etymology

Borrowed from Latin prōsecūtus, perfect participle of prōsequor. Doublet of pursue, from Old French. Compare also persecute.