Vocabulary Spotlight
Beset
Part of Speech: Verb
Definition: To trouble or harass persistently; to surround or attack on all sides.
“The expedition was beset by bad weather, making progress nearly impossible.”
Pronunciation
[bih-set]
Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words
Synonyms
Harass
Plague
Torment
Surround
Antonyms
Help
Relieve
Assist
Protect
Related Words
Persecute
Burden
Word Origin
“Beset” originates from Old English “besettan,” meaning “to surround” or “to place around.” It suggests facing continuous challenges or being encircled by problems.
Word Family
Verb: Beset – To trouble or attack persistently.
Noun: Besetting – The act of troubling or surrounding persistently.
Mnemonics
Think “be-set upon” – to be persistently “set upon” or troubled by challenges.
Industry-specific Usage
Business
In business, a company may be beset by financial difficulties or competition.
Psychology
In psychology, individuals may feel beset by persistent anxieties or worries.
History
In historical accounts, armies or explorers may be described as beset by harsh conditions or adversaries.
In Context
“Beset” is commonly used to describe situations where a person or group faces ongoing difficulties or obstacles that seem to surround them.