Pronunciation: [pəzˈɛs] (IPA) 
The word "possess" is spelt /pəˈzɛs/ in IPA phonetic transcription. It consists of two syllables: "pos" and "sess". The "o" in "pos" is pronounced as /ɑ/ and the double "s" in "sess" is pronounced as /s/. The stress in the word falls on the second syllable, "sess". This word means to own or have control over something. Knowing the correct spelling of "possess" is important for effective communication, especially in written form.
Possess is a transitive verb that refers to the act of having or owning something. It means to be in control or ownership of an item, object, or quality. Possess can also describe the state of possessing particular traits or attributes, whether physically or mentally.
When defined in terms of ownership, to possess something implies that one has legal or rightful control over it. This can include tangible belongings like property, possessions, or material goods. For instance, someone may possess a car if they have legal ownership or hold the title to it.
Furthermore, possess can extend beyond mere physical ownership to encompass abstract concepts. For example, someone might possess knowledge, skills, or talents in a certain field. In such a case, possession refers to having a particular quality or ability that sets them apart.
The concept of possession also extends to emotional and psychological traits. For instance, a person may possess great courage, compassion, or resilience. In this context, possess implies that the individual possesses these qualities within themselves and exhibits them under varying circumstances.
Additionally, the term possess can occasionally be used to describe temporary or fleeting control, such as when one possesses a calm demeanor in a tense situation.
Overall, the verb possess denotes the act of having or holding something, whether it be physical, abstract, or ephemeral.
To have or hold as an owner; to enjoy; to occupy; to hold the title of, as the rightful proprietor; to have power over, or to affect by some invisible power.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "possess" originates from the Old French word "posséder", which can be traced back to the Latin word "possidere". In Latin, "possidere" is a combination of "potis" (meaning "able") and "sedere" (meaning "to sit"). This combination of words expresses the idea of having control or power over something, as if one is able to sit upon or have dominion over it. Over time, the word "possess" in English has retained a similar meaning, describing the act of owning or having control over something.
