self-possession

noun

self-pos·​ses·​sion ˌself-pə-ˈze-shən How to pronounce self-possession (audio)
 also  -ˈse-
: control of one's emotions or reactions especially when under stress : presence of mind, composure
Choose the Right Synonym for self-possession

confidence, assurance, self-possession, aplomb mean a state of mind or a manner marked by easy coolness and freedom from uncertainty, diffidence, or embarrassment.

confidence stresses faith in oneself and one's powers without any suggestion of conceit or arrogance.

the confidence that comes from long experience

assurance carries a stronger implication of certainty and may suggest arrogance or lack of objectivity in assessing one's own powers.

handled the cross-examination with complete assurance

self-possession implies an ease or coolness under stress that reflects perfect self-control and command of one's powers.

answered the insolent question with complete self-possession

aplomb implies a manifest self-possession in trying or challenging situations.

handled the reporters with great aplomb

Examples of self-possession in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web In this moment, Putin’s self-possession can only be outsized. David Remnick, The New Yorker, 25 Feb. 2024 This self-possession is apparent in one of the six photographs published as part of Detour’s 1995 music issue. Myriam Gurba, Los Angeles Times, 15 Feb. 2024 The book shared her remarkable story of self-possession under the most dehumanizing circumstances. Cynthia Greenlee, Smithsonian Magazine, 12 Feb. 2024 That green skin, the self-possession, even the take-no-prisoners manner of walking. EW.com, 9 Oct. 2023 Where Braugher is often associated with characters of authority and self-possession, his Owen Thoreau Jr. is an anxious man, diabetic, a father of three, whose life has run into a rut, working as a car salesman for a demanding, demeaning father. Robert Lloyd, Los Angeles Times, 13 Dec. 2023 Its embrace and adaptation by the local population says something about self-possession too. Globe Staff, BostonGlobe.com, 24 Aug. 2023 Her confidence and self-possession are clear in her direct gaze at the viewer. Kate C. Lemay, Smithsonian Magazine, 17 July 2023 Something often ties the people who are championed by such groups together: a self-possession, a facility with words, an ability to narrate one’s fall and redemption. Annalisa Quinn, BostonGlobe.com, 5 July 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'self-possession.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1665, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-possession was in 1665

Dictionary Entries Near self-possession

Cite this Entry

“Self-possession.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-possession. Accessed 18 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

self-possession

noun
self-pos·​ses·​sion
ˌself-pə-ˈzesh-ən
: control of one's emotions or reactions : composure
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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