rhizoverbBeta
DictionarypossessionOwnership or control
noun

possession

puh-ZESH-un/pəˈzeʃn/

The condition of having something under one's ownership or control.

The woman keeps her cherished violin safely in her possession.

A young adult East Asian woman carefully places her cherished violin in its fitted case beside her own coat and backpack, showing a personal possession.
Etymology
possessLatinto have and hold, own
+ionLatinact or state

Latin possidere meant “to have and hold” or “hold in one's control.” The noun names either that state of ownership or, concretely, the thing someone owns.

In context

Storytime Haven191:46
"Pardon me," he answered quietly, "but I am in the possession of information which enables me to understand exactly what he is.
A Prince of Swindlers 👑💰 | A Tale of Deceit and Adventure by Guy Boothby

More examples

  • The buyers take possession of the house on Friday.
  • Our team keeps possession of the ball.
  • The missing keys are now in my possession.

Forms

possession

possess verb — To have something under ownership or control.

possessor noun — A person who owns or controls something.

Similar words

ownership
Emphasizes something belonging to you, rather than merely controlling it.
custody
Emphasizes keeping something safe or being responsible for it.
control
Emphasizes power over something, whether or not you own it.