\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.