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more about besetting
besetting |
2 definitions found From Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913) [web1913]: 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. 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.'' --Milton. 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.] --Chaucer. Syn: To surround; inclose; environ; hem in besiege; encircle; encompass; embarrass; urge; press. From Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913) [web1913]: Besetting \Be*set"ting\, a. Habitually attacking, harassing, or pressing upon or about as a besetting sin.
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