Meaning & Definition
verb
To surround a place, especially a fortified place, with armed forces in order to capture it or force its surrender.
The army was besieging the city for several months before finally breaching its walls.
To overwhelm or inundate someone or something with requests or questions.
She was besieging the librarian with questions about the reading assignment.
Etymology
From Middle English be segen, from Old French besedier, from Latin obsidere.
Common Phrases and Expressions
besieged by demands:
Overwhelmed by requests or pressures.
besiege with questions:
To ask someone many questions persistently.
Slang Meanings
Going after someone intensely.
He was besieging her with text messages until she replied.
To bombard someone with requests.
Stop besieging me for a ride; I'll take you when I can!