Beset, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Beset; p. pr. & vb. n. Besetting.]
Etymology: [AS. besettan (akin to OHG. bisazjan, G. besetzen, D. bezetten); pref. be- + settan to set. See Set.]
1. To set or stud (anything) with ornaments or prominent objects. A robe of azure beset with drops of gold. Spectator. The garden is so beset with all manner of sweet shrubs that it perfumes the air. Evelyn.
2. To hem in; to waylay; to surround; to besiege; to blockade. "Beset with foes." Milton. Let thy troops beset our gates. Addison.
3. To set upon on all sides; to perplex; to harass; -- said of dangers, obstacles, etc. "Adam, sore beset, replied." Milton. "Beset with ills." Addison. "Incommodities which beset old age." Burke.
4. To occupy; to employ; to use up. [Obs.] Chaucer.
1 more senses
Syn. -- To surround; inclose; environ; hem in; besiege; encircle; encompass; embarrass; urge; press.