Pros"e*cute (?), v. t. [imp. &
p. p. Prosecuted (?); p. pr. & vb.
n. Prosecuting.] [L. prosecutus, p. p. of
prosequi to follow, pursue. See Pursue.]
1. To follow or pursue with a view to reach,
execute, or accomplish; to endeavor to obtain or complete; to carry
on; to continue; as, to prosecute a scheme, hope, or
claim.
I am beloved Hermia;
Why should not I, then, prosecute my right ?
Shak.
2. To seek to obtain by legal process; as, to
prosecute a right or a claim in a court of law.
3. (Law) To pursue with the intention
of punishing; to accuse of some crime or breach of law, or to pursue
for redress or punishment, before a legal tribunal; to proceed against
judicially; as, to prosecute a man for trespass, or for a
riot.
To acquit themselves and prosecute their
foes.
Milton.
Pros"e*cute, v. i. 1.
To follow after. [Obs.] Latimer.
2. (Law) To institute and carry on a
legal prosecution; as, to prosecute for public offenses.
Blackstone.
