beset

[ bih-set ]

verb (used with object)

, be·set, be·set·ting.

1. to attack on all sides; assail.
2. to trouble greatly or grievously; to afflict with mental or physical suffering; harass: Even as he was being beset with disasters, he triumphed.

   The best ideas are often beset by bureaucratic hurdles.

   Even as he was being beset with disasters, he triumphed.

3. to surround; hem in:

   The village was beset on all sides by dense forest.

   Our work will be beset with dangers.

   Synonyms: besiege, enclose, encircle, trouble, torment, persecute, bedevil, afflict, harass, assault

4. to set or place upon; bestud:

   The gold bracelet she found was beset with jewels.

   Synonyms: ornament, decorate, stud

5. Nautical. to surround (a vessel) by ice, so that control of the helm is lost.

beset

/ bɪˈsɛt /

verb

1. (esp of dangers, temptations, or difficulties) to trouble or harass constantly
2. to surround or attack from all sides
3. archaic.
   to cover with, esp with jewels

Derived Forms

• beˈsetter, noun

Other Words From

• be·set·ment noun
• be·set·ter noun
• pre·be·set verb (used with object) prebeset prebesetting
• un·be·set adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of beset¹

First recorded before 1000; from Middle English besetten, Old English besettan. See be-, set

Example Sentences

A drastic increase in deportations would likely entail a large expansion in the immigration court system, which has been beset by backlogs.

From BBC

And with the Dodgers considered favorites to sign him if he does come to MLB this winter, he could represent the front office’s dream acquisition: A young, gifted, cost-controlled pitcher to bolster a starting rotation beset by injuries in recent years.

From Los Angeles Times

In 1948, beset by labor issues and changing technology, the Chicago Daily Tribune was forced to print its first presidential election night issue with only a small percentage of ballots counted.

From Los Angeles Times

In the government’s view this system will provide an independent quality control on major projects spending, that has been beset with delay and overspend, and proved more expensive in the UK than other major economies.

From BBC

Israel, he said, was beset by “lies and slanders”.

From BBC

Related Words

• bedevil
• beleaguer
• besiege
• embarrass
• invade
• overrun
• perplex
• surround