Pursuit

/pərˈsjuːt/

Meaning & Definition

noun
the action of pursuing someone or something.
The police were in hot pursuit of the stolen vehicle.
an activity of a specified kind, especially one that a person engages in regularly.
Her lifelong pursuit of knowledge led her to become a renowned scholar.
the act of seeking to attain or accomplish a goal.
He devoted his life to the pursuit of happiness.

Etymology

From Middle English 'pursuite', from Old French 'poursuite', from Latin 'pursuitus', from 'pursuere' (to follow after).

Common Phrases and Expressions

pursuit of happiness
The active quest for personal fulfillment and contentment.
in hot pursuit
Chasing someone or something with great intensity.
pursuit of knowledge
The effort to acquire or gain understanding and insight.

Related Words

pursue
To follow or chase after something.
pursuant
In accordance with; as a result of.
pursuable
Able to be pursued or chased.

Slang Meanings

Chase down
They're really chasing down that promotion.
Hunting for
He's hunting for a new job.