pursuit

American  

[per-soot] / pərˈsut /

noun

1. the act of pursuing.

   in pursuit of the fox.

   Synonyms:

   hunt, chase

2. an effort to secure or attain; quest.

   the pursuit of happiness.

   Synonyms:

   search

3. any occupation, pastime, or the like, in which a person is engaged regularly or customarily.

   literary pursuits.

   Synonyms:

   inclination, preoccupation, activity

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pursuit British  

/ pəˈsjuːt /

noun

1. 1. the act of pursuing, chasing, or striving after

   2. ( as modifier )

      a pursuit plane

2. an occupation, hobby, or pastime

3. (in cycling) a race in which the riders set off at intervals along the track and attempt to overtake each other

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Etymology

Origin of pursuit

First recorded in 1300–50; Middle English, from Anglo-French purseute, from Vulgar Latin prōsequita (unrecorded), from Latin prōsecūta, feminine of prōsecūtus “followed,” past participle of prōsequī “to follow, continue”; pursue

Example Sentences

Warner’s reversal is the latest twist in Hollywood’s biggest auction in years — and five months after Paramount Chairman David Ellison began his dogged pursuit of the larger media company.

From Los Angeles Times

The reality of keeping Black men, women, and children enslaved was unjust, a violation of human rights, and contrary to “Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness,” the founding ideals of the United States.

From Literature

It lies in the unending pursuit of power that has defined this generation of the game.

From The Wall Street Journal

After decades of pursuit, researchers have taken the crucial first step toward expanding the possibilities of silicon based chemistry.

From Science Daily

Given the element of US intelligence apparently involved, it also underlines the Sheinbaum administration's willingness to work together with Washington in pursuit of the same goals.

From BBC

Related Words

• accomplishment
• activity
• career
• occupation
• undertaking