The spelling of the word "possession" may be confusing to some due to the double letter "s" in the middle. However, it is pronounced with only one "s" sound. The IPA phonetic transcription for "possession" is /pəˈzeʃən/. The first syllable is pronounced with a schwa sound and the second syllable has an "eh" sound. The "sh" sound is represented by the letter combination "ss" in the traditional spelling. "Possession" refers to something owned or controlled by someone or something.
Possession refers to the act of owning or having control over something, whether physical, emotional, or intellectual. In a legal context, possession typically implies having physical custody or control over an object or property. It encompasses the ability to use, enjoy, or dispose of the item at one's discretion. Possession may be temporary, permanent, or conditional based on various factors.
In a broader sense, possession can also apply to intangible concepts such as ideas, emotions, or beliefs. For example, one may possess knowledge or possess certain traits or qualities. In this case, possession relates to the control, understanding, or mastery of a particular subject or attribute.
Psychologically, possession can refer to moments when an individual feels a strong sense of ownership or attachment to someone or something, often experienced as a deep connection or loyalty. It can also refer to the state of being influenced or controlled by an external force, such as in cases of possession-related disorders or altered mental states.
Overall, possession encompasses the notion of having control, ownership, or influence over tangible and intangible entities. It can range from physical ownership of objects to intellectual ownership of ideas, and from emotional attachment to being influenced by external forces.
State of owning or having in one's own power; that which is possessed; occupancy; property; state of being under the power of invisible beings; madness.
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 "possession" originates from the Latin term "possessio", which is derived from the verb "possidere". "Possidere" is a combination of "pos" meaning "in" or "to be able" and "sedere" meaning "to sit". Therefore, "possession" essentially conveys the idea of sitting in or having control over something.