Pur*sue" (?), v. t. [imp. & p. p. [Pursued] (?); p. pr. & vb. n. [Pursuing].] [OE. pursuen, porsuen, OF. porsivre, poursuivre, poursuir, F. poursuivre, fr. L. prosequi; pro forward + sequi to follow. See [Sue], and cf. [Prosecute], [Pursuivant].]

1.

To follow with a view to overtake; to follow eagerly, or with haste; to chase; as, to pursue a hare.

We happiness pursue; we fly from pain. Prior.

The happiness of men lies in purswing, Not in possessing. Longfellow.

2.

To seek; to use or adopt measures to obtain; as, to pursue a remedy at law.

The fame of ancient matrons you pursue. Dryden.

3.

To proceed along, with a view to some and or object; to follow; to go in; as, Captain Cook pursued a new route; the administration pursued a wise course.

4.

To prosecute; to be engaged in; to continue.

" Insatiate to pursue vain war."

Milton.

5.

To follow as an example; to imitate.

6.

To follow with enmity; to persecute; to call to account.

The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have pursued me, they shall pursue you also. Wyclif (John xv. 20).

Syn. -- To follow; chase; seek; persist. See [Follow].

© [Webster 1913].

Pur*sue", v. i.

1.

To go in pursuit; to follow.

The wicked flee when no man pursueth. Prov. xxviii. 1.

Men hotly pursued after the objects of their ambition. Earle.

2.

To go on; to proceed, especially in argument or discourse; to continue.

[A Gallicism]

I have, pursues Carneades, wondered chemists should not consider. Boyle.

3. [Law]

To follow a matter judicially, as a complaining party; to act as a prosecutor.

Burrill.

© [Webster 1913].

Pursue (definition)