Possessing
/pəˈzɛsɪŋ/
Definitions
3 meaningsTo have or own something.
/pəˈzɛsɪŋ/
He is possessing a large amount of land.
💡 Simply: Imagine you find a really cool toy. When you have it and it belongs to you, you are possessing it! It's yours! Like, if you possess a cool robot, that means you have it and can play with it.
👶 For kids: To have something that is yours.
More Examples
The museum possesses several priceless artifacts.
She claimed to possess the winning lottery ticket.
How It's Used
"The homeowner was possessing the deed to the property."
"She is possessing a rare collection of antique books."
To have a quality, characteristic, or ability.
/pəˈzɛsɪŋ/
To have a quality or characteristic.
He is possessing the skills necessary for the job.
💡 Simply: It's like saying someone has a certain talent or characteristic, like possessing a great sense of humor. It means it's something they have inside them or that they show.
👶 For kids: To have a special thing about you, like being good at singing.
More Examples
The artwork possesses an undeniable beauty.
She possesses a strong sense of empathy.
How It's Used
"She is possessing great talent."
"He was possessing an aura of confidence."
To be controlled by something, such as a spirit or emotion.
/pəˈzɛsɪŋ/
To be controlled or dominated by a powerful force, such as a spirit.
The film depicts a character possessing by an evil spirit.
💡 Simply: Sometimes people talk about being possessed by something like a spirit or a very strong feeling. It's like something else is in control of them.
👶 For kids: To be controlled by something not real, like a ghost.
More Examples
She felt as if fear was possessing her every thought.
The ancient ritual was performed to prevent the area being possessed.
How It's Used
"The shaman claimed the victim was possessing a demon."
"The character was possessing a dark, overwhelming power."
Synonyms & Antonyms
From Middle English posseden, from Old French possesser, from Latin possidere ('to have, own').
Historically, 'possessing' often appeared in legal and religious contexts, reflecting ownership and control.
Memory tip
Think of 'possess' like a treasure chest; you possess what's inside!
Word Origin
"to have, to own"