besetting

adjective

be·​set·​ting bi-ˈse-tiŋ How to pronounce besetting (audio)
bē-
Synonyms of besettingnext
: constantly present or attacking : obsessive

Synonyms

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Examples of besetting in a Sentence

that woman's besetting need to meddle in the affairs of others

Word History

First Known Use

1634, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of besetting was in 1634

Phrases Containing besetting

Dictionary Entries Near besetting

beset

besetting

besetting sin

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Cite this Entry

“Besetting.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/besetting. Accessed 20 Apr. 2024.

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Kids Definition

besetting

adjective
be·​set·​ting
bi-ˈset-iŋ
: constantly present or attacking
a besetting danger

More from Merriam-Webster on besetting

Nglish: Translation of besetting for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of besetting for Arabic Speakers

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