bedevil
verb (used with object)
to torment or harass maliciously or diabolically, as with doubts, distractions, or worries.
have bedeviled
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present perfectof bedevil.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Employment reforms have bedeviled successive Indian governments since the country first opened its economy to the world in 1991, after nearly half a century of autarky.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jan. 26, 2026
Buying the stock means believing that Fermi can overcome hurdles that have bedeviled better-established infrastructure companies.
From Barron's ● Sep. 30, 2025
The committee proposed significant reforms to the budget and appropriations process in hopes of lessening the likelihood of the persistent shutdown threats that have bedeviled Congress.
From Seattle Times ● Nov. 9, 2023
Rising and waning COVID-19 surges have bedeviled efforts by many employers to get workers back into the office on a steady basis after their buildings were mostly emptied early in the pandemic.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 16, 2022
You have bedeviled him," said Nick sulkily, "as you have witched all men who encounter you.
From The Little Red Foot by Robert W. (Robert William) Chambers
