embroil

verb

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

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.
Gulf sovereign wealth funds have ramped up dealmaking in the past three months, despite the region being embroiled in the Iran war and oil revenues being hit by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Matthew Martin, semafor.com, 1 June 2026 Meanwhile, the five books of the Stormlight Archive take place in a world ravaged by magical storms where a cast of characters get embroiled in an ancient conflict. Shyla Watson, PEOPLE, 1 June 2026 There’s no doubt that the numerous scandals the former prince Andrew is embroiled in are not great for the British monarchy. Lizzie Lanuza, StyleCaster, 31 May 2026 After peaceful demonstrations were put down with lethal force, many opponents of military rule took up arms, and large parts of the country are now embroiled in conflict. Grant Peck, Los Angeles Times, 31 May 2026 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 4 Jun. 2026.

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

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