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.
The U.S. and Iran are locked in a diplomatic stalemate over issues that have bedeviled the two sides for years, as the conflict settles into a gray zone that is neither war nor peace.
From The Wall Street Journal ● May 12, 2026
Buying the stock means believing that Fermi can overcome hurdles that have bedeviled better-established infrastructure companies.
From Barron's ● Sep. 30, 2025
By starting the exercise while most students were away on winter break, university leaders minimized the raucous backlashes that have bedeviled previous attempts by campus officials to take control of the park.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jan. 6, 2024
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
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
