'Besetting' definitions:

Definition of 'Besetting'

From: GCIDE
  • Beset \Be*set"\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Beset; p. pr. & vb. n. Besetting.] [AS. besettan (akin to OHG. bisazjan, G. besetzen, D. bezetten); pref. be- + settan to set. See Set.]
  • 1. To set or stud (anything) with ornaments or prominent objects. [1913 Webster]
  • A robe of azure beset with drops of gold. --Spectator. [1913 Webster]
  • The garden is so beset with all manner of sweet shrubs that it perfumes the air. --Evelyn. [1913 Webster]
  • 2. To hem in; to waylay; to surround; to besiege; to blockade. "Beset with foes." --Milton. [1913 Webster]
  • Let thy troops beset our gates. --Addison. [1913 Webster]
  • 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. [1913 Webster]
  • 4. To occupy; to employ; to use up. [Obs.] --Chaucer. [1913 Webster]
  • Syn: To surround; inclose; environ; hem in; besiege; encircle; encompass; embarrass; urge; press. [1913 Webster]

Definition of 'Besetting'

From: GCIDE
  • Besetting \Be*set"ting\, a. Habitually attacking, harassing, or pressing upon or about; as, a besetting sin. [1913 Webster]

Words containing 'Besetting'