Siege

Noun

Definition: A military operation in which enemy forces surround a town or building, cutting off essential supplies, with the aim of compelling those inside to surrender.

Synonyms: Blockade, Encirclement, Investment

Antonyms: Liberation, Relief

Examples:

The city endured a long and brutal siege during the war.
The castle walls held strong against the enemy's siege tactics.

Mnemonics:

Think of a siege as a prolonged and strategic attempt to capture a location.

Etymology:

Origin:

Middle English 'sege', from Old French 'siege', from Latin 'sedes' meaning "seat" or "settlement".

Historical Usage:

The term "siege" has been used since the 13th century to describe the tactic of surrounding and besieging a location as a means of capturing it.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Lay siege to"

Explanation:

To besiege or attack a place or person in a determined and persistent manner.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "siege" with "battle" or "war".

Explanation:

While a siege may be a part of a larger conflict, it specifically refers to the tactic of surrounding and cutting off supplies to force surrender, rather than a direct engagement in combat.