possess
3 ENTRIES FOUND:
possesses;
possessed;
possessing
possesses;
possessed;
possessing
Britannica Dictionary definition of POSSESS
[+ object]
1
formal
:
to have or own (something)
-
nations that possess nuclear weapons
-
The defendant was charged with possessing cocaine.
-
The ruby was once possessed by an ancient queen.
-
He dreams of someday possessing great wealth.
2
:
to have or show (a particular quality, ability, skill, etc.)
-
He possesses a keen wit.
-
The drug possesses the potential to suppress tumors.
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Do dolphins possess the ability to use language?
3
a
of spirits
:
to enter into and control (someone)
— often used as (be) possessed
-
The movie is about a child who is possessed by a demon.
b
of emotions
:
to have a powerful effect on (someone)
-
They were possessed by fear. [=they were very afraid]
-
A terrible rage possessed her at that moment. [=she became filled with rage]
-
Whatever possessed him to say such a stupid thing? [=why did he say such a stupid thing?]
-
She was acting like a fool. I don't know what possessed her. [=I don't know why she acted that way]
be possessed of
literary
:
to have (a particular quality, ability, skill, etc.)
-
He is a man who is possessed of great talent. [=a man who has great talent]
