embattled

adjective

: engaged in battle or conflict : surrounded by enemies

: constantly criticized or attacked

Full Definition of EMBATTLED

a : ready to fight : prepared to give battle <here once the embattled farmers stood — R. W. Emerson>

b : engaged in battle, conflict, or controversy <an embattled official accused of extortion>

a : being a site of battle, conflict, or controversy <the embattled capital>

b : characterized by conflict or controversy <an embattled presidency>

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15th century

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