v.
- have (something) belonging to one.
▸Law have possession of as distinct from ownership.
- have as an ability, quality, or characteristic.
▸
(possessed of)
in possession of.
-
[usu. as adj. possessed]
(of a demon or spirit, especially an evil one) have complete power over.
- (of an emotion, idea, etc.) dominate the mind of.
- literary have sex with (a woman).
Phrase
- what possessed you?
used to express surprise at an action regarded as extremely unwise.
Derivative
- possessor n.
- possessory adj.
Etymology
ME: from OFr. possesser, from L. possess-, possidere ‘occupy, hold’.