hemmed

VERB

enclose, restrict

Synonyms

WEAK

begird beset border bound cage circle circumscribe close in confine corral define edge encircle encompass envelop environ fence fringe girdle hedge in immure margin pen rim ring round shut shut in skirt surround verge

Antonyms

WEAK

let go release

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Hemmed in by the Turkish border and Syrian government forces, the town has long been seen as a symbol of Kurdish fighters' victory against IS jihadists.

From Barron's • Feb. 3, 2026

Hemmed in by historically frigid temperatures in the far north and much warmer ones further south, the jet stream generally confines itself to a narrow band.

From Science Daily • Nov. 26, 2024

Hemmed in by Covid restrictions, she was limited in her public engagements, fuelling the perception that she was invisible.

From BBC • Aug. 17, 2024

Hemmed in, the fish could face a dire situation if a wildfire dumped ash into the water or a prolonged drought evaporated their home.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 31, 2024

Hemmed in between Ligaroti and the rail, Seabiscuit had nowhere to go.

From "Seabiscuit: An American Legend" by Laura Hillenbrand