Synonyms for persecute

verb

1. To oppress, especially for religious reasons

   afflict, harass, hector, bait, victimize, tyrannize, outrage, ill-treat, oppress, wrong, imprison, torment, torture, rack, flog, strike, beat, scourge, kill, crucify, maltreat, banish, expel, exile; see also abuse 1.

   Antonyms encourage*, endorse, patronize.

2. To torment persistently

   annoy, worry, tease; see bother 2. See syn. study at wrong.