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possess
[puh-zes]
verb (used with object)
to have as belonging to one; have as property; own.
to possess a house and a car.
to have as a faculty, quality, or the like.
to possess courage.
(of a spirit, especially an evil one) to occupy, dominate, or control (a person) from within.
He thought he was possessed by devils.
(of a feeling, idea, etc.) to dominate or actuate in the manner of such a spirit.
He was possessed by envy.
(of a man) to succeed in having sexual intercourse with.
to have knowledge of.
to possess a language.
to keep or maintain (oneself, one's mind, etc.) in a certain state, as of peace, patience, etc.
to maintain control over (oneself, one's mind, etc.).
to impart to; inform; familiarize (often followed by of orwith ).
to possess someone of the facts of the case.
to cause to be dominated or influenced, as by an idea, feeling, etc.
to make (someone) owner, holder, or master, as of property, information, etc..
He possessed them of the facts.
to seize or take.
to gain or win.
to occupy or hold.
possess
/ pəˈzɛs /
verb
to have as one's property; own
to have as a quality, faculty, characteristic, etc
to possess good eyesight
to have knowledge or mastery of
to possess a little French
to gain control over or dominate
whatever possessed you to act so foolishly?
(foll by of) to cause to be the owner or possessor
I am possessed of the necessary information
(often foll by with) to cause to be influenced or dominated (by)
the news possessed him with anger
to have sexual intercourse with
rare, to keep control over or maintain (oneself or one's feelings) in a certain state or condition
possess yourself in patience until I tell you the news
archaic, to gain or seize
Other Word Forms
- possessor noun
- possessorship noun
- underpossessor noun
- unpossessing adjective
Word History and Origins
Origin of possess1
Word History and Origins
Origin of possess1
Synonym Study
Example Sentences
These findings highlight the overwhelming odds against discovering Earth-like planets that possess both plate tectonics and a nitrogen-oxygen atmosphere containing the right balance of oxygen and carbon dioxide.
It had been eight months since Sasaki signed with the Dodgers amid massive expectations, coming over from Japan as a 23-year-old phenom billed as possessing some of the best raw arm talent in the world.
They might be underdogs, but they possess two of the world's best.
He said the gang members "possessed weapons, such as the Skorpion, that have been used to kill innocent people in Merseyside".
The inquest heard Georgia was an "inquisitive, yet quiet, young person" who "possessed great kindness, sensitivity, and the ability to be truly empathetic".
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