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

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

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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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Buying the stock means believing that Fermi can overcome hurdles that have bedeviled better-established infrastructure companies.

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The musician and former reality TV star, bedeviled by health issues for years, died July 22.

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Related Words

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