1. a military operation in which enemy forces surround a town or building, cutting off essential supplies, with the aim of compelling the surrender of those inside
2. a similar operation by police or other forces against armed criminals or terrorists
3. a prolonged period of misfortune or trouble
Usage: figurative

1. to surround a place with armed forces in order to capture it or force its surrender

Examples

• The castle withstood a siege that lasted three months.
• Police ended the siege after negotiations with the gunman failed.
• The city was under siege for weeks before finally surrendering.
• Enemy troops sieged the fortress throughout the winter.
• The family endured a siege of financial problems.
• Medieval armies would siege enemy strongholds to gain territory.
• The siege mentality affected everyone trapped inside the building.