prosecution

American  

[pros-i-kyoo-shuhn] / ˌprɒs ɪˈkyu ʃən /

noun

1. Law.

   1. the institution and carrying on of legal proceedings against a person.

   2. the body of officials by whom such proceedings are instituted and carried on.

2. the following up of something undertaken or begun, usually to its completion.

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prosecution British  

/ ˌprɒsɪˈkjuːʃən /

noun

1. the act of prosecuting or the state of being prosecuted

2. 1. the institution and conduct of legal proceedings against a person

   2. the proceedings brought in the name of the Crown to put an accused on trial

3. the lawyers acting for the Crown to put the case against a person Compare defence

4. the following up or carrying on of something begun, esp with a view to its accomplishment or completion

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Other Word Forms

• nonprosecution noun

Etymology

Origin of prosecution

First recorded in 1555–65; from Late Latin prōsecūtiōn-, stem of prōsecūtiō “follow-up”; equivalent to prosecute + -ion

Example Sentences

The prosecution was later thrown out and Halligan’s appointment deemed illegal.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 4, 2026

The DOJ declined the case for prosecution last June, citing the “prioritization of federal resources and interests.”

From Salon • Apr. 1, 2026

The prosecution was unusual because forced-labor conspiracy is rarely charged alone.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 30, 2026

Glenn Hogben, chief executive officer of industry trade body The Air Charter Association, said Henderson's conviction set an "important benchmark" for future prosecution of those involved in illegal charter operations.

From BBC • Mar. 29, 2026

An attorney assisting the prosecution asked whether she’d feel better if agents brought her to see Ernest.

From "Killers of the Flower Moon" by David Grann

Related Words

• government
• prosecutor