How to Pronounce Possess

To pronounce "possess", say POSS-ess — 2 syllables, IPA /pəˈzɛs/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

possess

Tap to hear · American accent

Accent

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Speed

Syllable by syllable — tap each one

Practice: Record & Compare

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Syllables

Letters

/pəˈzɛs/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “possess”

"possess" has 2 syllables: poss-ess. It rhymes with nonetheless and nevertheless, if that helps it stick.

What does possess mean?

verb

To have; to have ownership of.
“He does not even possess a working telephone.”
To take control of someone's body or mind, especially in a supernatural manner.
“They thought he was possessed by evil spirits.”

Synonyms

seise inhold

Hear “possess” in real sentences

Real example sentences from Tatoeba (CC-BY) — tap to hear each one, or see it used on YouGlish.

Words that rhyme with possess

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

nonetheless nevertheless coalesce distress acquiesce address caress assess process egress express finesse

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "possess"?▾

"Possess" has 2 syllables: poss · ess.

What is the IPA transcription of "possess"?▾

The IPA transcription of "possess" is /pəˈzɛs/.

What does "possess" mean?▾

Possess: To have; to have ownership of.

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