embattled

[ em-bat-ld ]

adjective

1. disposed or prepared for battle.
2. engaged in or beset by conflict or struggle.

embattled

/ ɪmˈbætəld /

adjective

1. prepared for or engaged in conflict, controversy, or battle
2. heraldry having an indented edge resembling battlements

Other Words From

• unem·battled adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of embattled¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English; embattle ¹, -ed ²; embattled def 2 probably by association with the general sense “restrict, enclose” of many verbs formed with em- ¹, en- ¹

Example Sentences

In this nervous city in an embattled country, even small explosions can have a big impact.

From The Daily Beast

The official spoke on condition of anonymity so as not to harm future access to those embattled communities.

From The Daily Beast

When I tried to get to the embattled city on Tuesday evening, I faced repeated warnings not to try it.

From The Daily Beast

It is a valiant, encyclopedic attempt of a star jurist to give voice(s) to an embattled philosophical position.

From The Daily Beast

He has a new book [Embattled Rebel] about Jefferson Davis as a commander in chief.

From The Daily Beast

It consists of a nave of four bays, a south aisle, chancel, and massive western embattled tower.

From Project Gutenberg

Coity church, dating from the 14th century, is a fine cruciform building with central embattled tower in Early Decorated style.

From Project Gutenberg

The banner of Laon represented two embattled towers, between which rose a naked sword.

From Project Gutenberg

"I'll get you yet," he said, pointing a finger at the embattled Stover.

From Project Gutenberg

The church, dedicated to St. Andrew, is old and interesting, with an ivy-covered embattled western tower.

From Project Gutenberg