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.

The castle was under siege for several months before the defenders finally surrendered.

A prolonged period of misfortune or difficulty.

The company faced a siege of financial troubles that lasted for years.

siegeverb

To surround and attack a fortified place in such a way as to isolate it from help and supplies, for the purpose of lessening the resistance of the defenders and thereby making capture possible.

The army decided to siege the castle to force the occupants to surrender.

siegeadjektiv

Of, relating to, or designed for a military siege.

The army assembled enormous siege weapons outside the fortress walls.