Definition

A situation where a place is surrounded and blocked, often in a military context, making it difficult for people to enter or leave.

Example

The city was under a beleaguerment, with troops surrounding it on all sides.

Conversation

Have you ever felt like you're in a constant state of beleaguerment?

Definitely! It sometimes feels like life is just piling on the pressure.

Right? It's like we're surrounded by challenges all the time.

Exactly! We just have to find ways to cope and stay positive.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Beleaguerment is formed from "be-" (meaning about or around) and "leaguer" (from Middle Dutch *leger*, meaning camp or siege) and the suffix "-ment" (indicating the action or result of). The word describes the act of surrounding or besieging a place, particularly in a military context.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'surrounded' ('be-') by a 'camp' ('leaguer') — that's why beleaguerment means being besieged or surrounded.

Visually Confused Words