possessory

[ puh-zes-uh-ree ]

adjective

1. of or relating to a possessor or to possession:

   registration of possessory claims.

2. arising from possession:

   a possessory interest.

3. having possession:

   possessory landholdings.

possessory

/ pəˈzɛsərɪ /

adjective

1. of, relating to, or having possession
2. law arising out of, depending upon, or concerned with possession

   a possessory title

Other Words From

• pos·sesso·ri·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of possessory¹

1375–1425; late Middle English < Late Latin possessōrius, equivalent to Latin possed-, stem of possidēre to possess ( possession ) + -tōrius -tory ¹, with dt > ss

Example Sentences

They contain stipulations for extinguishing the possessory rights of the Indians to large and valuable tracts of lands.

From Project Gutenberg

Possessory registration, however, was to be granted to any one who could show a prima facie title—a quick and cheap process.

From Project Gutenberg

The position held at first by sufferance may ripen into a possessory title, provided he sticks to his claim.

From Project Gutenberg

Practically, the right to such property was possessory, and when abandoned it reverted to the gens.

From Project Gutenberg

Massachusetts, New York, and Connecticut claimed largely, but without possessory right.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• anxious
• apprehensive
• attentive
• envious
• intolerant
• possessive
• protective
• resentful
• skeptical
• suspicious