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View synonyms for beset

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
“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
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Derived Forms

  • beˈsetter, noun
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Other Words From

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

Origin of beset1

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

However, the game was beset by problems from the moment it was released.

From BBC

The star's performance was beset by technical issues, which left her voice muffled and distorted for at least 30 minutes.

From BBC

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.

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

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Beseleelset in one's ways, be