The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

Prosecute \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.]
   [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]

The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

Prosecute \Pros"e*cute\, v. i.
   1. To follow after. [Obs.] --Latimer.
      [1913 Webster]

   2. (Law) To institute and carry on a legal prosecution; as,
      to prosecute for public offenses. --Blackstone.
      [1913 Webster]

WordNet (r) 3.0 (2006):

prosecute
    v 1: conduct a prosecution in a court of law
    2: bring a criminal action against (in a trial); "The State of
       California prosecuted O.J. Simpson" [ant: defend,
       represent]
    3: carry out or participate in an activity; be involved in; "She
       pursued many activities"; "They engaged in a discussion"
       [syn: prosecute, engage, pursue]