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Definition of embattled

embattled

/ɛmˈbæt.əld/
em · bat · tled
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embattled Lexical Profile

embattled Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Beset by intense conflict, controversy, criticism, or persistent difficulties.

Example

"The embattled chief executive resigned after months of public scrutiny over the company's finances."

2

Involved in or prepared for war, combat, or a major struggle.

Example

"Historians studied the letters sent home by the embattled farmers during the revolution."

3

Provided with battlements or crenelations for defense, as on a castle wall or in heraldry.

Example

"The ancient fortress was surrounded by high, embattled stone walls."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for embattled

• Nearby Words

embarrassingly
embarrassment
embassy
embattled
embed
embeddable
embedded

Word Origin & Etymology

Originating in Middle English as the past participle of the verb 'embattle' (from Old French 'embataillier', meaning to array for battle), it was separately influenced in the 15th century by Middle French 'batailler', meaning to fortify with battlements.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Embattled. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/embattled
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