siege
siege definition
siege (sēj)
noun
- the encirclement of a fortified place by an opposing armed force intending to take it, usually by blockade and bombardment
- any persistent attempt to gain control, overcome opposition, etc.
- ☆ a long, distressing or wearying period a siege of illness
Etymology: ME sege < OFr < VL *sedicum < *sedicare, to set < L sedere, to sit
Obsolete a seat; throne
Etymology: ME sege < OFr siege, aphetic < *assiege < VL *absedium, for L obsidium, siege, blockade, ambush < obsidere, to besiege < ob-, against + sedere, to sit
siege Idioms
lay siege to
to subject to a siege; attempt to win, gain, overcome, etc.
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