¦ verb
1. have (something) belonging to one.
Law have possession of as distinct from ownership.
2. have as an ability, quality, or characteristic.
(possessed of) in possession of.
3. [usu. as adjective possessed] (of a demon or spirit, especially an evil one) have complete power over.
4. (of an emotion, idea, etc.) dominate the mind of.
5. literary have sex with (a woman).
Phrases
what possessed you? used to express surprise at an action regarded as extremely unwise.
Derivatives
possessor noun
possessory adjective
Origin
ME: from OFr. possesser, from L. possess-, possidere 'occupy, hold'.