belagen

Belagen is a Dutch verb meaning to harass or press someone with persistent demands, accusations, or intimidation. It is used to describe actions that wear down a target through repeated or aggressive behavior. The word is typical of Dutch and Flemish usage.

The term originates in the Dutch language, with roots connected to earlier forms meaning to lay on, attack, or burden. It shares a semantic field with verbs that express coercion or persistent pressure across Germanic languages.

Belagen is transitive, typically taking a direct object such as a person or organization. In journalism and political discourse, belagen is used to describe sustained questioning, aggressive lobbying, or mounting pressure on a target. It can also refer to informal contexts, such as persistent complaints or demands.

The term carries negative connotations; it emphasizes persistence and a coercive undertone rather than a one-off action. Depending on context, belagen may be considered harassment or bullying.

See also: harassment, pressure, intimidation, scrutiny.