enmesh

American  

[en-mesh] / ɛnˈmɛʃ /

verb (used with object)

1. to catch, as in a net; entangle.

   He was enmeshed by financial difficulties.

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enmesh British  

/ ɪnˈmɛʃ /

verb

1. (tr) to catch or involve in or as if in a net or snare; entangle

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Other Word Forms

• enmeshment noun

Etymology

Origin of enmesh

First recorded in 1595–1605; en- ¹ + mesh

Example Sentences

The 20 years the U.S. spent enmeshed in those countries were painful and expensive, and people are still wondering what they ultimately accomplished.

From Salon

Disney was enmeshed in turmoil, including fending off a proxy challenge from two billionaire shareholders, who had aimed their wrath at Iger and Disney’s stalled stock price.

From Los Angeles Times

“I didn’t want to be enmeshed with him,” she says.

From Los Angeles Times

The family history is enmeshed with the British Empire.

From The Wall Street Journal

They were a power couple in Washington, high-profile political reporters enmeshed in the capital’s social scene.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• embroil
• ensnare
• entangle
• entrap
• implicate
• snare