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Besieging: meaning, definitions and examples

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besieging

 

[ bɪˈsiːdʒɪŋ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

military action

Besieging refers to the act of surrounding and attacking a place, especially a fortified one, in order to capture it. This tactic has been used throughout history, often with the intention of forcing a surrender by cutting off supplies and reinforcements. The process can involve various strategies, including constructing siege works, deploying artillery, and maintaining a blockade. It has been a common military operation during wars and conflicts, especially before the advent of modern warfare.

Synonyms

blockading, enclosing, surrounding

Examples of usage

  • The army was besieging the city for months.
  • During the war, the general ordered his troops to commence besieging the fortress.
  • The rebels are besieging the government building.
  • They had no choice but to surrender after being besieged for weeks.

Translations

Translations of the word "besieging" in other languages:

🇵🇹 cerco

🇮🇳 घेराबंदी

🇩🇪 Belagerung

🇮🇩 pembesiegan

🇺🇦 облога

🇵🇱 oblężenie

🇯🇵 包囲

🇫🇷 siège

🇪🇸 asedio

🇹🇷 kuşatma

🇰🇷 포위

🇸🇦 حصار

🇨🇿 obléhání

🇸🇰 obliehanie

🇨🇳 围攻

🇸🇮 obleganje

🇮🇸 umsátrun

🇰🇿 қоршау

🇬🇪 გადაკარგვა

🇦🇿 döngə

🇲🇽 asedio

Etymology

The word 'besiege' comes from the Latin term 'obsidēre', which means 'to sit before.' This term evolved into Old French as 'besieger' in the 12th century. In the context of warfare, besieging was a common practice in ancient and medieval times, where armies would encircle cities or castles to cut off access to resources and force a capitulation. The concept of besieging was integral to military strategy in historical conflicts, as it could determine the outcome of battles and the fate of territories. As warfare evolved, the tactics of besieging also changed, incorporating advancements in artillery, fortification designs, and supply chain management.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,252, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.