embattle

¹

[em-bat-l]

verb (used with object)

embattled, embattling 

1. to furnish with battlements.

embattle

²

[em-bat-l]

verb (used with object)

embattled, embattling 

1. to arrange in order of battle; prepare for battle; arm.

2. to fortify (a town, camp, etc.).

embattle

/ ɪmˈbætəl /

verb

1. to deploy (troops) for battle

2. to strengthen or fortify (a position, town, etc)

3. to provide (a building) with battlements

Word History and Origins

Origin of embattle¹

First recorded in 1350–1400, embattle is from the Middle English word embatailen. See em- ¹, battle ²

Origin of embattle²

1350–1400; Middle English embatailen < Middle French embataillier. See em- ¹, battle ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of embattle¹

C14: from Old French embataillier; see _en- ¹ , _battle

Example Sentences

Britain's ruling Labour party lost a regional parliament seat in its traditional stronghold of Wales Friday, an ominous sign for embattled Prime Minister Keir Starmer ahead of wider local elections next year.

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An influential German conservative politician demanded on Thursday that Ukraine reverse its new rules allowing more young men to leave the embattled nation.

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Last week, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced efforts to secure a new $20 billion "facility" to support the South American country's embattled economy.

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Rohl, who left Sheffield Wednesday by mutual consent in the summer, twice staved off relegation with the embattled South Yorkshire club.

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The international pressure failed to crack the armed forces, though, as the military high command stood by the embattled president.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal