First Known Use: 1603
Dictionary
embroil
verb em·broil \im-ˈbrȯi(-ə)l\
: to involve (someone or something) in conflict or difficulties
Full Definition of EMBROIL
transitive verb
1
: to throw into disorder or confusion
2
: to involve in conflict or difficulties <embroiled in controversy>
— em·broil·ment \-mənt\ noun
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Origin of EMBROIL
French embrouiller, from Middle French, from en- + brouiller to jumble, from Old French brooilier, from Vulgar Latin *brodiculare — more at broil
Related to EMBROIL
- Synonyms
- bog (down), broil, embrangle, mire
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