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

Explanation

You know the lawyers who try to make the jury believe the guy on trial for stealing the bananas actually stole the bananas? That team of lawyers is known as the prosecution. The entire process of trying to convict someone of a crime is known as the prosecution, and if convicted, you may face prosecution. Any words with the root prosecute are connected to trying to prove someone’s guilt. You might often hear about "the prosecution's case" — that's their evidence. Or you might hear about a "prosecution witness" — someone who is supposed to tell jury members something that will convince them of the defendant's guilt.

Example Sentences

Treasury Department expanded sanctions on vessels and companies linked to Iran’s illicit oil trade, with officials pledging prosecution.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 18, 2026

It’s a form of harassment, even if it’s ultimately not successful in securing the prosecution and I understand that.

From Slate • Apr. 16, 2026

As Mark explains, Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents don’t technically have absolute immunity from legal liability, but they do enjoy broad protections from prosecution thanks to federal law.

From Slate • Apr. 16, 2026

But Pattison told the jury: "Mr Albadri's intention was not just focused on his application. The prosecution say he had other matters on his mind - matters far more sinister."

From BBC • Apr. 15, 2026

Opposition leaders in Parliament demanded the prosecution of those connected with his death.

From "Kaffir Boy: An Autobiography" by Mark Mathabane

Related Words

• government
• prosecutor