Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Beleaguering: meaning, definitions and examples

⚔️
Add to dictionary

beleaguering

 

[bɪˈliːɡərɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

military action

To beleaguer means to lay siege to a place, typically a fortified one. This involves surrounding the location in order to cut off supplies and reinforcements, effectively forcing the occupants into a position of surrender or desperation. beleaguering can also refer to subjecting someone to constant trouble or harassment. It underscores a feeling of being under persistent pressure or difficulty.

Synonyms

besiege, harass, oppress, surround, trouble.

Examples of usage

  • The army began beleaguering the fortress at dawn.
  • She felt beleaguered by the constant demands of her job.
  • The strategically positioned troops were beleaguering the enemy's stronghold.
  • Before the negotiations, the negotiators were beleaguering the other party with questions.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Dutch word 'legeren', which means 'to camp'.
  • It originally described laying siege to a place, such as a castle, by surrounding it.
  • The prefix 'be-' suggests being surrounded or encircled by something.

Historical Context

  • Throughout history, beleaguering has been a common tactic in warfare, illustrating strategies to weaken defenses.
  • Famous sieges, like the Siege of Vicksburg during the American Civil War, showcased the tactic of beleaguering to restrict supplies.
  • In medieval times, castles often faced beleaguering tactics by rival lords to gain control over territories.

Psychology

  • People can feel a sense of beleaguering in their personal lives, feeling overwhelmed by challenges.
  • The term can be linked to feelings of stress, as individuals might feel trapped by responsibilities or pressures.
  • Therapists often help individuals find ways to cope with feelings of being beleaguered, fostering resilience.

Literature

  • In literature, characters may feel beleaguered as a metaphor for their struggles against societal or personal challenges.
  • Classic novels often depict protagonists in beleaguering situations as a means to explore themes of perseverance and courage.
  • Notable works, such as 'The Catcher in the Rye', explore character feelings of being beleaguered by the world around them.

Pop Culture

  • Films and shows sometimes depict heroes in beleaguering circumstances to highlight their inner strength and resolve.
  • In video games, players often face beleaguering scenarios where they must think strategically to escape or overcome challenges.
  • Musicians use the concept of feeling beleaguered to convey emotions in songs, addressing both personal struggles and societal issues.

Translations

Translations of the word "beleaguering" in other languages:

🇵🇹 cercar

🇮🇳 घेरना

🇩🇪 belagern

🇮🇩 menghimpit

🇺🇦 обложення

🇵🇱 otaczać

🇯🇵 包囲する

🇫🇷 encercler

🇪🇸 asediar

🇹🇷 kuşatmak

🇰🇷 포위하다

🇸🇦 تحاصر

🇨🇿 obléhat

🇸🇰 obliehať

🇨🇳 围攻

🇸🇮 oblegati

🇮🇸 umgirt

🇰🇿 қоршау

🇬🇪 დაახვიე

🇦🇿 dövrə almaq

🇲🇽 asediar

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,749, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.