1. The position, direction, or way in which something, such as an automatic control, is set. 2a. The context and environment in which a situation is set; the background. b. The time, place, and circumstances in which a narrative, drama, or film takes place. 3.Music A composition written or arranged to fit a text, such as a poetical work. 4. A mounting, as for a jewel. 5. A place setting. 6. A set of eggs in a hen's nest.