beleaguer

[bih-lee-ger]

verb (used with object)

1. to surround with military forces.

2. to surround or beset, as with troubles.

   Synonyms: hector, plague, annoy, vex, vex, bother, badger, pester, harass

beleaguer

/ bɪˈliːɡə /

verb

1. to trouble persistently; harass

2. to lay siege to

Other Word Forms

• beleaguerer noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of beleaguer¹

First recorded in 1580–90; be- + leaguer ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of beleaguer¹

C16: from _be- + _leaguer ¹

Example Sentences

But this detection has come as a blow to a sector beleaguered by costs, incoming taxation changes, and other disease threats.

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It is Liverpool's worst run since 1953-54 as pressure mounts on the beleaguered Slot, with jeers from angry fans greeting the final whistle.

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The International Monetary Fund said Wednesday that Germany's public spending ramp-up must be accompanied by "pro-growth" reforms to ensure Europe's beleaguered top economy makes a sustained recovery.

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One major problem for beleaguered bitcoin right now: investor belief is crucial for continued gains, and right now the faithful are wavering.

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What most generously believed was a blip, based on the compelling evidence of Slot's first title-winning campaign last season, is now a full-blown crisis for Liverpool and their beleaguered head coach.

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Related Words

• annoy 
• bedevil 
• beset 
• plague