What does the term 'besiege' mean?

The term 'besiege' means to surround and attack, particularly in a military context. This often involves surrounding a fortified place to cut off supplies and force a surrender. The concept of besiegement conveys not only the physical act of encircling but also the strategic intent of pressure both through force and by exacerbating conditions for those within the besieged area.

This definition captures the essence of the term as it relates to both literal military sieges and metaphorical uses, such as being overwhelmed by persistent requests or challenges. Understanding the meaning of 'besiege' in this way is essential for comprehending various narratives or historical contexts where the term is applied.