prosecute

v. t. [ imp. & p. p. Prosecuted p. pr. & vb. n. Prosecuting. ] [ L. prosecutus, p. p. of prosequi to follow, pursue. See Pursue. ] [ 1913 Webster ]

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. [ 1913 Webster ]

I am beloved Hermia;
Why should not I, then, prosecute my right ? Shak. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. To seek to obtain by legal process; as, to prosecute a right or a claim in a court of law. [ 1913 Webster ]

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. [ 1913 Webster ]

To acquit themselves and prosecute their foes. Milton. [ 1913 Webster ]