Definition of: prosecute

(pros′ə·kyt) v. ·cut·ed, ·cut·ing v.t.
1. To go on with so as to complete; pursue to the end: to prosecute an inquiry.
2. To carry on or engage in, as a trade or profession.
3. Law a To bring suit against for redress of wrong or punishment of crime, b To seek to enforce or obtain, as a claim or right, by legal process.
—v.i.
4. To begin and carry on a legal proceeding. See synonyms under PUSH. [<L prosecutus, pp. of prosequi pursue <pro- before + sequi follow]