besiege
besiege Lexical Profile
besiege Game Scores & Validity
• verb
To crowd around someone oppressively or overwhelm them with a large number of requests or questions.
"Reporters and photographers began to besiege the lead scientist outside the conference hall after the breakthrough announcement."
To surround a fortified place with armed forces in order to capture it or force its surrender.
"Historical records describe how the rival kingdom attempted to besiege the walled city for several months during the winter."
To trouble, harass, or afflict persistently (especially of anxieties, doubts, or difficulties).
"Financial difficulties continued to besiege the small community theater throughout its first decade of operation."
• Rhymes for besiege
Word Origin & Etymology
Originating in Middle English, the word combines the native prefix be- (meaning 'around') with the Old French noun siege ('a seat' or 'blockade'), ultimately derived from the Latin verb sedere ('to sit').