embroil

verb

em·​broil im-ˈbrȯi(-ə)l 

embroiled; embroiling; embroils

transitive verb

1

: to throw into disorder or confusion

2

: to involve in conflict or difficulties

embroiled in controversy

embroilment

im-ˈbrȯi(-ə)l-mənt 

noun

Synonyms of embroil

• tangle
• trap
• broil
• bog (down)
• enmesh

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

In his lengthy response, Arnault also addresses the article’s claim that his family is embroiled in bitter succession disputes. — Devorah Lauter For Artnews, Robb Report, 29 July 2026

Listeners can hear the March 2024 interview that took place hours before Ohtani became embroiled in a potential scandal that resulted in the firing of his longtime interpreter. — Fabian Ardaya, New York Times, 28 July 2026

Naughty centers on Mallory (Aniston), who is embroiled in a custody battle with her ex over her son. — Ryan Gajewski, HollywoodReporter, 28 July 2026

The shooting came as the estranged couple was embroiled in a contentious custody dispute over their daughter. — Stephanie Nolasco, FOXNews.com, 25 July 2026

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

Rhymes for embroil

• airfoil
• benzoyl
• despoil
• etoile
• gargoyle
• recoil
• subsoil
• tinfoil
• topsoil
• trefoil
• turmoil
• aerofoil

Kids Definition

embroil

verb

em·​broil im-ˈbrȯi(ə)l 

1

: to throw into disorder or confusion

2

: to involve in conflict or difficulties

embroiled in a lawsuit

embroilment

-mənt 

noun