persequ

Persequ is a term used in linguistic and philological contexts to refer to the Latin deponent verb persequor and its infinitive persequi, meaning “to pursue” or “to follow after” in classical Latin. In scholarly discussions, persequ- is treated as the canonical stem from which the full set of deponent forms are built, and it is often cited when illustrating deponent conjugation in Latin grammars.

Etymology and meaning: The form derives from the prefix per- meaning “through, thoroughly” combined with sequor, “to follow.” The core sense is to pursue or to follow closely, with figurative uses such as following an argument or sequence of events. The deponent nature of the verb means that its forms are passive in appearance but active in meaning.

Usage and forms: Persequor is a deponent verb, so its present, imperfect, and future tenses are constructed with passive endings while conveying active meanings. The infinitive is persequi, and the perfect participle is persécutus or persé-quitus sum in some grammars. The verb occurs across literary and rhetorical texts and is used in both literal pursuing and metaphorical following contexts, such as pursuing evidence, pursuing a line of argument, or following someone through a narrative.

In modern reference works, persequ- is used as the headword in discussions of deponent verbs and Latin conjugation, and the term persequ is encountered in discussions of historical forms, irregularities, and teaching materials aimed at Latin morphology and syntax.

See also: Persequor, Persequi, Latin verbs, Deponent verbs, Latin grammar.