Bedevil

Bedevil (verb) means to cause distress or torment to someone; to harass or trouble persistently. It can also imply the act of confusing or complicating a situation, often leading to frustration or distress. The term is derived from the Old English 'bedeofian', which conveys a sense of being tormented by demonic forces, though it is often used in a secular context today.

Bedevil meaning with examples

• Despite his best efforts to complete the project on time, unforeseen circumstances began to bedevil him, with continuous setbacks and last-minute changes leading to his frustration. Each day seemed to bring new challenges that further complicated the situation, leaving him wondering if he would ever meet the deadline.
• The ghost stories of the old house continued to bedevil the young couple, causing sleepless nights filled with unsettling fears. Friends would recount tales of spooky occurrences like creaking floors and flickering lights, intensifying their apprehension and making them question their decision to move into the seemingly haunted property.
• As the political campaign wore on, scandals began to bedevil the candidate, overshadowing his message of hope and change. Each revelation stirred up controversy and diverted media attention, complicating his efforts to connect with voters, ultimately leading to declining support as concerns about his integrity mounted.
• After a series of bad breaks, the athlete felt as if bad luck had come to bedevil his career, with injuries and poor performances stacking up. Friends tried to encourage him, reminding him that all athletes face challenges, but the constant setbacks made it hard for him to keep his spirits high.