Synonyms of beleaguer

beleaguer

verb

bi-ˈlē-gər 

as in to besiege

to surround (as a fortified place) with armed forces for the purpose of capturing or preventing commerce and communication

beleaguered the castle for months

Synonyms & Similar Words

• besiege
• attack
• encircle
• blockade
• assault
• leaguer
• invest
• lay siege to
• assail
• beset
• dam
• cut off
• barricade
• confine
• isolate
• block
• insulate
• quarantine

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• liberate
• release
• rescue
• free
• emancipate

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of beleaguer

This spring, graduates are leaving their respective alma maters and entering a job market that is beleaguered with uncertainty. — Adam Harris, The Atlantic, 21 May 2026

But their chances have appeared to improve in recent weeks as the unpopular war with Iran and stubborn affordability issues have beleaguered GOP midterm ambitions. — Kaia Hubbard, CBS News, 6 May 2026

The gig plays to her strengths, while her tenure as Kohl's CEO was rockier and beleaguered by activists. — Emma Hinchliffe, Fortune, 9 Apr. 2026

On Tuesday, Midwestern states were beleaguered by strong winds, storms, reports of tornadoes and hail. — Marlene Lenthang, NBC news, 11 Mar. 2026

Podcast

Get Word of the Day delivered to your inbox!