set in

US /set ɪn/
UK /set ɪn/
"set in" picture
1.

When something unpleasant or difficult sets in, it begins and seems likely to continue.

:
The rain set in for the entire weekend.
Once the cold weather sets in, it's hard to get rid of it.
2.

If a belief or habit sets in, it becomes fixed and difficult to change.

:
Once bad habits set in, they are hard to break.
A feeling of despair set in after the news.