possess

pos-sess · verb

imported

Definitions

verb

  1. 1.

    To have as belonging to one; to own.

  2. 2.

    To have as an ability, quality, or characteristic.

  3. 3.

    (of a demon or spirit) To have complete control over someone.

  4. 4.

    (of a feeling or idea) To dominate the mind of; to obsess.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    what possessed you? — Expression of disbelief at someone's actions
  • •
    possessed of — Having or owning something (formal)

Related words

Antonyms: lack, lose
See also: have, own, possessed, possession
Synonyms: control, have, hold, own

Etymology

From Old French possesser, from Latin possidere ("to have, hold, possess"), from potis ("able, capable") + sedere ("to sit").