ENGLISH
REFERENCE

besieged

adj.
C1 Advanced US //bɪˈsidʒd// UK //bɪsˈiːdʒd// be·sieged

adj. surrounded by enemies or problems that are attacking you. You use this when someone is under heavy pressure from all sides.

adj. under attack from all sides, typically by an enemy force or overwhelming difficulties. Often used predicatively after linking verbs like 'feel' or 'seem'.


SIMPLE

The city was besieged by the army for weeks.

CONTEXTUAL

The small shop was besieged by customers during the holiday sale.

COMPLEX

The government found itself besieged by critics who demanded immediate reforms to the healthcare system.

Synonyms
Usage

Often used with 'by' to introduce the source of the pressure or attack.

© 2026 English Reference