possess
/pəˈzɛs/
Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.
Also seen as: possesses · possessing · possessed
Sense 1
Meaning · English
To have (something) as, or as if as, an owner; to have, to own.
Verb
Examples
He does not even possess a working telephone.
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Sense 2
Meaning · English
Of an idea, thought, etc.: to dominate (someone's mind); to strongly influence.
Verb
Examples
I am poſſeſt with an adulterate blot, / My bloud is mingled with the crime of luſt: […]
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “possess” mean?
To have (something) as, or as if as, an owner; to have, to own.
Is “possess” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.