embroil

verb

em·​broil im-ˈbrȯi(-ə)l How to pronounce embroil (audio)
embroiled; embroiling; embroils

transitive verb

1
: to throw into disorder or confusion
2
: to involve in conflict or difficulties
embroiled in controversy
embroilment noun

Examples of embroil in a Sentence

His stand on this issue has embroiled him in controversy. The new drug has been embroiled in controversy. They were embroiled in a complicated lawsuit.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Ben Sulayem has become embroiled in a number of controversies during a tenure marked by a series of high-profile departures of senior personnel. Madeline Coleman, New York Times, 5 July 2025 Over the past decade, Zappa has been embroiled in legal issues regarding the Zappa family trust, which has resulted in ongoing turmoil for the family, per The Washington Post. EW.com, 1 July 2025 He is not related to either individual and importantly, has not been embroiled in any similar scandals. Cayla Bamberger, New York Daily News, 25 June 2025 The Olympic gold medalist and Gaines, a former collegiate swimmer, have been embroiled in a back-and-forth regarding transgender rights in sports. Anna Lazarus Caplan, People.com, 24 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for embroil

Word History

Etymology

French embrouiller, from Middle French, from en- + brouiller to jumble, from Old French brooilier, from Vulgar Latin *brodiculare — more at broil

First Known Use

1603, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of embroil was in 1603

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Embroil.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/embroil. Accessed 9 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

embroil

verb
em·​broil im-ˈbrȯi(ə)l How to pronounce embroil (audio)
1
: to throw into disorder or confusion
2
: to involve in conflict or difficulties
embroiled in a lawsuit
embroilment noun

More from Merriam-Webster on embroil

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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