PoliticsAugust 9, 2026
beleaguered
bih-LEE-gurd
Definition
Beset with difficulties, problems, or criticism; under heavy pressure.
Etymology
Derived from the Middle Dutch word 'belegeren,' meaning 'to lay siege to' or 'camp around,' reflecting the image of a city surrounded by an enemy army.
In the news
The article uses the word to describe institutions or systems under severe external pressure, highlighting the precarious nature of the global order.
The Davos Moment in an Undeclared War
Read the full article ↗Policy Magazine