Besiege
Channel: English Unpacked
Date: 2024-02-16

The word "besiege" is a verb that means to surround or crowd around someone or something in a persistent and overwhelming manner. It is often used to describe a situation where a person or a place is under intense pressure or attack, either physically or metaphorically.
Here are a few examples to help illustrate the usage of "besiege":
1. Physical context:
   - During a war, the enemy forces may besiege a city by surrounding it and cutting off its supplies. For example, "The army besieged the castle, preventing anyone from entering or leaving."
   - In a protest or demonstration, a large crowd may besiege a government building, demanding action or change. For example, "The protesters besieged the parliament, demanding justice for the victims."
2. Metaphorical context:
   - If someone is constantly bombarded with phone calls, messages, and requests, they might say, "I feel besieged by all these demands on my time."
   - In a workplace, if a manager is overwhelmed with a high volume of emails and tasks, they might say, "I am besieged with work right now."
In all these examples, "besiege" is used to convey the idea of being surrounded or overwhelmed by something or someone, either physically or metaphorically.