prosecution

noun

pros·​e·​cu·​tion ˌprä-si-ˈkyü-shən 

1

: the act or process of prosecuting

specifically : the institution and continuance of a criminal suit involving the process of pursuing formal charges against an offender to final judgment

2

: the party by whom criminal proceedings are instituted or conducted

3

obsolete : pursuit

Synonyms of prosecution

• execution
• implementation
• perpetration
• fulfillment

Examples of prosecution in a Sentence

There has been an increase in prosecutions for gun-related crimes.

The defendant is awaiting prosecution.

The prosecution called their first witness.

The prosecution rests, Your Honor.

The defense told the jury that the prosecution had not proved its case.

Recent Examples on the Web

Last-ditch plan for prosecution Authorities next developed what Smallwood described as a last-ditch plan to prosecute Tanzer — a ruse that could catch him lying about the rape. — Tim Stelloh, NBC news, 2 Oct. 2026

Thank you, Jack Smith, for being a dedicated public servant and continuing to do the right thing to help protect American democracy, even after unfounded threats of prosecution. — Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 2 Oct. 2026

Weeks earlier, voters had recalled District Attorney Chesa Boudin over what many considered to be his lax approach to criminal prosecution. — Greg Rosalsky, NPR, 2 Oct. 2026

Others have questioned whether a new law paving the way for more prosecutions would disproportionately impact people of color due to existing biases in the criminal justice system. — Lauren Mascarenhas, CNN Money, 1 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1545, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing prosecution

• testify for the defense/prosecution
• the prosecution

Rhymes for prosecution

• absolution
• allocution
• attribution
• comminution
• constitution
• contribution
• convolution
• destitution
• devolution
• diminution
• dissolution
• distribution

Kids Definition

prosecution

noun

pros·​e·​cu·​tion ˌpräs-i-ˈkyü-shən 

1

: the act or process of prosecuting

especially : the bringing and continuance of a criminal case

2

: the one bringing charges of crime against a person being tried

especially : the state's lawyers in a criminal case

Legal Definition

prosecution

noun

pros·​e·​cu·​tion ˌprä-si-ˈkyü-shən 

1

: the act or process of prosecuting

especially : the institution and carrying on of a criminal action involving the process of seeking formal charges against a person and pursuing those charges to final judgment

2

: the party by whom criminal proceedings are instituted or conducted compare defense sense 3, plaintiff