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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
Reader, there’s another important quality that children possess.
The five are each charged with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute.
He possessed both the winemaking skills and an appetite for devilry.
South Korea would join an elite group of military powers globally that possess nuclear-powered subs.
The U.S. is roughly on par with Russia’s nuclear weapon stockpile, with each country possessing over 5,000 warheads.
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