Besiege

To besiege is to surround a place, such as a city or fortress, in order to capture it or force its surrender. Typically involves cutting off essential supplies and reinforcements, creating a state of isolation for those inside. The term can also be used metaphorically to describe overwhelming someone with requests, questions, or problems, as in being besieged by demands in a stressful situation.

Besiege meaning with examples

• In ancient times, armies would besiege fortified cities during conflicts, attempting to break through defenses while cutting off resources. This strategy often resulted in lengthy standoffs, with the army outside hoping starvation would force the inhabitants to surrender. Historical accounts tell of famous sieges, such as the Siege of Tyre, which showcased the military tactics of the era alongside the human drama of desperation and resilience within besieged walls.
• During the press conference, the politician was besieged by reporters demanding answers about recent policy decisions. The rapid-fire questions and constant camera flashes created a chaotic atmosphere, leaving the politician struggling to maintain composure and clarity amidst the barrage of inquiries. This modern form of being besieged illustrates how public figures often face overwhelming scrutiny, highlighting the challenges in handling media relations while conveying clear messages to the public.
• As the deadline approached, the overwhelmed student felt besieged by a mountain of assignments and exam preparations. Each responsibility seemed to compound her stress, leading to bouts of anxiety as she tried to manage her time effectively. This feeling of being besieged by coursework is all too familiar for many students, often prompting the need to develop strong time management skills or seek support from peers and educators during stressful academic periods.
• The small business owner felt besieged by customer complaints, negative reviews on social media, and demands for refunds. Each notification on her phone seemed to signal another challenge, leaving her feeling trapped and overwhelmed. This emotional toll reflects how entrepreneurs can sometimes face a barrage of difficulties, requiring resilience and adaptability to navigate the pressures of maintaining a positive reputation and satisfying clients while managing limited resources.