colloq. [f. prec. Of dialectal origin, from the idea of ‘getting the better of,’ ‘having the best of it’; but the form is hardly in accordance with the sense, which is nearly equivalent to the existing vb. to worst, i.e., ‘to make worst, put to the worst’; cf. also to better, to make better, improve.] trans. To get the better of, get an advantage over, outdo; to outreach, outwit, circumvent.
1863. Trafford (Mrs. Riddell), World in Church, II. 77. As I am a staunch Churchman I cannot stand quiet and see the Dissenters best the Establishment.
1885. May, in Fortn. Rev., Oct., 578. The quack broker who piles up money by besting his clients.
