Beleaguered: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Dutch word 'belegeren', meaning 'to besiege', which means to surround or attack.
• Originally used in military contexts to describe towns under siege by enemies.
• The root 'leaguer' refers to the act of laying siege or encircling a place, showing the word's strong visual connections.

Psychology

• Feeling beleaguered can lead to increased stress and anxiety, as one feels overwhelmed by life's challenges.
• People often experience a sense of helplessness or depression when beleaguered, impacting their overall well-being.
• Strategies to combat feelings of being beleaguered include mindfulness, seeking support, and problem-solving.

Historical Context

• Throughout history, armies have used sieges as a tactic, creating a direct link to the term's origins.
• The concept of being beleaguered is prevalent in literature, often symbolizing internal struggles or conflict faced by characters.
• In modern contexts, individuals may refer to work, family, or societal pressures as beleaguering, showcasing its evolution into everyday language.

Pop Culture

• Films often depict heroes as beleaguered before their eventual triumph, symbolizing resilience against overwhelming odds.
• Songs and literature frequently explore themes of being beleaguered, tapping into universal feelings of struggle and perseverance.
• Social media often highlights the 'beleaguered millennial' trope, focusing on the pressures and expectations faced by younger generations.

Literature

• Notable authors use the term to evoke deep emotional states, with characters feeling beleaguered due to societal norms or personal choices.
• Poetry often captures the essence of being beleaguered as a metaphor for human suffering and conflict.
• Classic works frequently explore the theme of feeling beleaguered as part of the human condition, resonating with many readers.

Positioned at #22,321, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

• ...
• 22318 composting
• 22319 plagiarism
• 22320 roentgen
• 22321 beleaguered
• 22322 streptococcus
• 22323 unionization
• 22324 chorea
• ...