possess
verb (used with object)
to have as belonging to one; have as property; own.
possessing
-
present participleof possess.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Known as an abyssal species, it slothfully trawls the shadows like some mournful Lovecraftian being, possessing an especially sluggish metabolism, which isn’t surprising considering its size.
From Salon ● Oct. 9, 2026
In 2020, North Korea made possessing foreign media a crime punishable by years-long forced labour terms –- and potential death sentences for large-scale distribution, according to Amnesty International.
From Barron's ● Sep. 28, 2026
In 2025, McLaren's Oscar Piastri arrived in Azerbaijan apparently in control of the championship, and possessing a big lead over team-mate Lando Norris, albeit less than half what Antonelli's is now.
From BBC ● Sep. 26, 2026
“While Respondents may not in fact possess what extravagant holdings they portray themselves as possessing online, the record reflects that they possess an exceptional capacity to flee the jurisdiction,” Louis wrote in a 30-page ruling.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 9, 2026
The crowd, invisible but possessing a huge, menacing voice, roared its approval of a Calhoun girl’s basket.
From "The Great Santini" by Pat Conroy
