self-possessed

[self-puh-zest, self-]

adjective

1. having or showing control of one's feelings, behavior, etc.; composed; poised.

   Synonyms: sedate, cool, serene, collected, calm

self-possessed

adjective

1. having control of one's emotions, etc

Other Word Forms

• self-possession noun
• self-possessedly adverb
• unself-possessed adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of self-possessed¹

First recorded in 1760–70

Example Sentences

He unabashedly leans into that vibe here, even while wrangling his pair of self-possessed cats.

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According to this account, Camilla was "self-possessed enough when they arrived at Paddington to jump off the train, find a guy in uniform and say 'That man just attacked me,' and he was arrested".

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"Mark is far more self-possessed and septical, possibly, of this company," says the 51-year-old, who played manager Ben Wyatt in comedy Parks and Recreation.

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My wise, self-possessed, inspirational friend says, “Cultivate your happy,” to balance the scales.

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Even more frightening is that she presents as intelligent and self-possessed.

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