Definition

The condition of being surrounded or attacked by problems or difficulties.

Example

The besetment of the town by floods caused many families to evacuate.

Conversation

I've been feeling a lot of stress lately.

Really? What's causing all this besetment in your life?

I think it's just work piling up and personal issues.

That makes sense. It's tough when everything seems to hit at once.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Besetment is formed from "be-" (meaning about or around) and "set" (from Old English "settan", meaning to place or put). The suffix "-ment" (meaning the action or result of) indicates the action of being placed around or surrounded. Thus, besetment refers to the state of being surrounded or troubled by difficulties or problems.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'placed around' ('be-') by troubles or challenges, which is what besetment means.

Visually Confused Words