embattled

American  

[em-bat-ld] / ɛmˈbæt ld /

adjective

1. disposed or prepared for battle.

2. engaged in or beset by conflict or struggle.

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embattled British  

/ ɪmˈbætəld /

adjective

1. prepared for or engaged in conflict, controversy, or battle

2. heraldry having an indented edge resembling battlements

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Other Word Forms

• unembattled adjective

Etymology

Origin of embattled

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English; see embattle ¹, -ed ²; embattled def. 2 probably by association with the general sense “restrict, enclose” of many verbs formed with em- ¹, en- ¹

Example Sentences

Under the agreement being discussed, the U.S. government would loan the embattled discount carrier as much as $500 million, receiving in return warrants to take a potential significant stake in Spirit, the people said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 22, 2026

The Mets’ players, meanwhile, have been left trying to defend their embattled manager.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 20, 2026

The Lakers embattled basketball boss smartly acquired renowned shooter Kennard from the Atlanta Hawks in early February for Gabe Vincent and a second-round draft pick and … are you kidding me?

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 19, 2026

Hui Ka Yan, the founder of embattled Chinese property developer Evergrande, has pleaded guilty to a number of charges including embezzlement of corporate assets and corporate bribery, according to a statement issued by the court.

From BBC • Apr. 14, 2026

The dinner invitation he had extended to the embattled Madison and Hamilton was perfectly in keeping with his character.

From "Founding Brothers: The Revolutionary Generation" by Joseph J. Ellis