possess
possess definition
pos·sess (pə zes′)
transitive verb
- to hold as property or occupy in person; have as something that belongs to one; own
- to have as an attribute, quality, faculty, etc. to possess wisdom
- to have knowledge or mastery of (a language, etc.)
- to gain strong influence or control over; dominate possessed by an idea
- to keep control over or maintain (oneself, one's mind, etc.)
- to have sexual intercourse with (a woman)
- to put (someone) in possession of property, facts, etc.; cause to have something specified: usually with of
- Archaic to seize or win
Etymology: LME < MFr possessier < L possessus, pp. of possidere, to possess < pos-, contr. < potis, able (see potent) + sedere, to sit
Related Forms:
- possessor pos·ses′·sor noun
Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2009 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
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