in posse

American  

[in pos-e, in pos-ee] / ɪn ˈpɒs ɛ, ɪn ˈpɒs i /

adverb

Latin.

1. in possibility; potentially (contrasted with in esse).

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in posse British  

/ ɪn ˈpɒsɪ /

adjective

1. possible; potential Compare in esse

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Etymology

Origin of in posse

First recorded in 1590–1600

Example Sentences

I am possessed of two separate powers�the one in esse and the other in posse.

From Time Magazine Archive

From a distance, say from under the verandah of a comfortable hotel, when the climber in posse indicates the way he would pursue with the end of his cigar, they are absurdly easy.

From Above the Snow Line by Dent, Clinton Thomas

Two minutes later saw her seated on the high box beside her future lord in posse; the bays plunging like mad and Andy swinging to the reins as if for life.

From Belford's Magazine, Volume II, No. 8, January, 1889 by Various

Every up-to-date dictionary should say that "peace" and "war" mean the same thing, now in posse, now in actu.

From Memories and Studies by James, Henry

The merits and absurdities of the type were already there, indeed, in posse.

From Marriage à la mode by Ward, Humphry, Mrs.