Definition

Always bothering or attacking someone or something.

Example

The besetting problems of the project made it difficult to succeed.

Conversation

I’ve been feeling really overwhelmed lately with all these besetting issues at work.

I totally get that! Stress can really pile up sometimes.

Yeah, it feels like there’s no escape from these besetting problems.

Have you thought about taking a short break to clear your mind?

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Besetting is formed from "be-" (meaning about or around) and "set" (from Old English "settan", meaning to place or put). The word describes the act of surrounding or placing oneself around something persistently, often in a troublesome manner.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'around' ('be-') something that is 'placed' ('set') persistently, which helps you remember that besetting refers to something that troubles or surrounds you.

Visually Confused Words