Prosecute
/ˈprɒs.ɪ.kjuːt/noun
To conduct legal proceedings against someone in a court of law.
Did you know?The term 'prosecute' is rooted in the idea of pursuing an adversary, echoing ancient practices of vengeance and retribution.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
prosequi
“to follow after, pursue, or accompany.”
Old French
Old French
prosecuter
“to continue or pursue a legal action.”
Middle English
Middle English
prosecuten
“to follow up or carry on with legal claims.”
Modern English
English
prosecute
“to pursue legal action against a defendant in court.”