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; 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

His pitch -- financial services framed as free speech -- lands easily with a crowd that sees itself as culturally embattled.

From Barron's

One of his most embattled relationships was with his mother, known as Foxy.

From Los Angeles Times

At a press briefing on Tuesday, Vigor Mendoza, chair of the country's transportation regulator, announced fare hikes that he said were "proof of... genuine concern" for both commuters and the embattled sector.

From Barron's

Still, in an embattled economy, with rising inflation and growing unemployment, more workers like Arciga are turning to these jobs for quick cash.

From Los Angeles Times

The son of Iran’s slain theocratic leader is a top contender to replace his father to steer the embattled Islamic Republic in its worst conflict in decades, according to people familiar with the matter.

From The Wall Street Journal