self-possession

American

[self-puh-zesh-uhn, self-] / ˈsɛlf pəˈzɛʃ ən, ˌsɛlf- /

noun

the quality of being self-possessed; control of one's feelings, behavior, etc.; composure; poise.

Etymology

Origin of self-possession

First recorded in 1735–45

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

But nothing comes across more clearly in “Queen of Chess” than Judit Polgár’s unruffled self-possession.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 5, 2026

The 20-year-old back row has swagger and self-possession, and a side order of skulduggery.

From BBC • Apr. 30, 2025

In a bright, charismatic performance, McCalla’s Elinor brings to life the character’s brainy charm and self-possession.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 14, 2025

It’s given me this facility, and this self-possession.

From Salon • Aug. 11, 2024

“Hyzenthlay?” said Bigwig, startled out of his self-possession.

From "Watership Down: A Novel" by Richard Adams

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023