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.