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View synonyms for besetting

besetting

[ bih-set-ing ]

adjective

  1. constantly assailing or obsessing, as with temptation:

    a besetting sin.



besetting

/ bɪˈsɛtɪŋ /

adjective

  1. tempting, harassing, or assailing (esp in the phrase besetting sin )
“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012


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Word History and Origins

Origin of besetting1

First recorded in 1540–50; beset + -ing 2
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Example Sentences

The besetting problem I have with it to this day, is do people want to know this?

It is also a timely insight into the paralysis besetting US politics.

I found that I had been allowed to acquire certain bad habits and besetting sins—most people do.

And then he walked about the room, reflecting on the curse of his life—his besetting sin—irresolution.

Cleverly though they manipulate, cleanliness is not their besetting weakness.

Borrowing was his besetting sin, and he was always head over ears in debt.

She held parley with her besetting sin, and her desire of 'the accursed thing' grew stronger.

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set in one's ways, bebeshow