besetting

adjective

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

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

Dictionary Entries Near besetting

Cite this Entry

“Besetting.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/besetting. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

besetting

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

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