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]