Beleaguer: meaning, definitions and examples

to besiege persistently

To beleaguer means to surround a place with armed forces in order to capture it or to force its surrender. It can also refer to the act of harassing or besetting someone persistently, leading to a sense of pressure or difficulty. This can apply to situations in which an individual feels overwhelmed by problems or challenges. The term is often used in military contexts but has also found a place in everyday language to describe emotional or mental stress caused by perpetual troubles.

besiege, harass, press, surround, trouble

Examples of usage

• The media continued to beleaguer the politician with questions.

• The company was beleaguered by financial difficulties.

• She felt beleaguered by the constant demands of her job.