possession
UK: pəˈzeʃ(ə)n | US: pəˈzeʃ(ə)n
n. the state of owning or controlling something
n. something that is owned or controlled
n. (law) the act of holding property legally
n. (in sports) control of the ball by a player or team
n. (supernatural) being controlled by a spirit or demon
possession = possess<to own> + ion<noun suffix>
- possess: From Latin possidēre (to occupy, own), combining potis (able) + sedēre (to sit). Implies "having control over."
- ion: A suffix forming nouns indicating an action or state (e.g., "decision," "creation").
Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to Latin possessio, reflecting the idea of "sitting upon" or "holding" property. Over time, it expanded from literal ownership to abstract control (e.g., emotions, supernatural forces). The suffix -ion solidified its role as a noun describing the state or act of possessing.
She took possession of the house after signing the contract.
The museum displayed rare artifacts in its possession.
The team struggled to maintain possession during the match.
The novel explores themes of greed and material possession.
In some cultures, possession by spirits is considered a medical condition.