# embattled

/ɛmˈbætəɫd/ (US) · /ɛmbˈætəld/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/embattled
Updated: 2026-05-26

## Definition

to be in a difficult or dangerous situation, often because of a fight or a strong argument. It describes someone who is struggling against many problems at once.

For teachers: to be engaged in a struggle or conflict, typically involving a significant number of opponents or obstacles. Often used to describe a person or group facing intense criticism or legal pressure.

## Examples

- The embattled leader faced a difficult decision.
- The embattled CEO spent the entire afternoon answering questions from angry shareholders about the company's declining profits.
- The embattled government struggled to maintain public support as a series of economic crises and internal scandals began to erode the trust of the electorate.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.