Be·set v. t. [imp. & p. p. Beset; p. pr. & vb. n. Besetting.]
1. To set or stud (anything) with ornaments or prominent objects.
A robe of azure beset with drops of gold. --Spectator.
The garden is so beset with all manner of sweet shrubs that it perfumes the air. --Evelyn.
2. To hem in; to waylay; to surround; to besiege; to blockade. “Beset with foes.”
Let thy troops beset our gates. --Addison.
3. To set upon on all sides; to perplex; to harass; -- said of dangers, obstacles, etc. “Adam, sore beset, replied.” --Milton. “Beset with ills.” --Addison. “Incommodities which beset old age.” --Burke.
4. To occupy; to employ; to use up. [Obs.]
Syn: -- To surround; inclose; environ; hem in; besiege; encircle; encompass; embarrass; urge; press.
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Be·set·ting, a. Habitually attacking, harassing, or pressing upon or about; as, a besetting sin.
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beset
v 1: annoy continually or chronically; "He is known to harry his
staff when he is overworked"; "This man harasses his
female co-workers" [syn: harass, hassle, harry, chivy,
chivvy, chevy, chevvy, plague, molest, provoke]
2: assail or attack on all sides: "The zebra was beset by
leopards" [syn: set upon]
3: decorate or cover lavishly with gems [syn: encrust, incrust]
[also: besetting]