Possess

/pəˈzɛs/

Meaning & Definition

verb
To have or own something.
She possesses an impressive collection of rare books.
To have a quality or attribute.
He possesses great talent in playing the piano.
To dominate or control someone or something.
The spirit is said to possess individuals during certain rituals.
To seize or take control of something.
They hoped to possess the land before their rivals could.

Etymology

From Middle English 'possessen', from Old French 'posséder', from Latin 'possidēre'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

possess the skills:
To have the necessary abilities or expertise.
possess oneself:
To control or restrain one's emotions or actions.
possess a talent:
To have a natural ability in a specific area.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

To have something desirable or cool.
That new phone is straight fire; I gotta possess it!
To be very good at something.
She really possesses those dance moves.