possess
verb (used with object)
to have as belonging to one; have as property; own.
have possessed
-
present perfectof possess.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
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.
At this point, it feels like she is drained of any confidence she might have possessed when you two first started.
From MarketWatch ● Jul. 29, 2026
The FBI was shown to have possessed the same data for 10 months.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 17, 2026
And, given they have never admitted causing the destruction that shocked the world, what might have possessed them to do it?
From BBC ● Jul. 15, 2025
Cultural transmission of knowledge as well as tool use were cited as examples of cognitive traits that it might have possessed.
From Science Daily ● Apr. 29, 2024
"Whatever could have possessed me to drop the bowl into the fire?" she exclaimed aloud.
From "Stardust" by Neil Gaiman
