bedevil

[bih-dev-uhl]

verb (used with object)

bedeviled, bedeviling , bedevilled, bedevilling .

1. to torment or harass maliciously or diabolically, as with doubts, distractions, or worries.

2. to possess, as with a devil; bewitch.

3. to cause confusion or doubt in; muddle; confound.

   an issue bedeviled by prejudices.

4. to beset or hamper continuously.

   a new building bedeviled by elevator failures.

bedevil

/ bɪˈdɛvəl /

verb

1. to harass or torment

2. to throw into confusion

3. to possess, as with a devil

Other Word Forms

• bedevilment noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of bedevil¹

First recorded in 1760–70; be- + devil

Example Sentences

However, securing the benefits of a relationship while navigating the associated risks is the hard task that has bedevilled governments.

Read more on BBC

Crime rates have dropped, homeless tent encampments that block sidewalks and bedevil retail businesses have shrunk and foot traffic and transit ridership have risen.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

But here, it’s directed at the young phenom Sasaki to bedevil hitters when he comes out in relief.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The homeless tent encampments that block sidewalks and bedevil retail businesses have shrunk, while foot traffic and transit ridership have risen.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

As suspicions bedevil him—has he been duped into this marriage?

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Related Words

• annoy 
• beset 
• bother 
• harass 
• irritate 
• torment