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

that neurosurgeon's self-possession in the operating room is legendary the little girl's self-possession very occasionally gave way to crying fits
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This exhibition will explore concepts that define Black dandyism specifically and uncover elements of productive tension that appear when considering the figure—such as ownership, authority and self-possession, ease, exaggeration, freedom, transgression, dissonance, and spectacularity. News Desk, Artforum, 10 Oct. 2024 In a career spanning nearly seven decades, Smith established herself as one of the most towering and beloved British actors of her generation, revered for her witty line deliveries and self-possession. Daniel Arkin, NBC News, 27 Sep. 2024 Not his legal education, borne of degrees from Yale and Oxford, nor his Chinese and English silver tongue, but the self-possession, drive, and track record to stand strong enough to be his authentic self. Alexandra Bregman, Forbes, 24 Sep. 2024 In contrast, Swinton is breathtakingly still, a woman who long ago made peace with death and welcomes it as her last act of self-possession. Maureen Lee Lenker, EW.com, 7 Sep. 2024 In the whole Mogao Caves area, only the icons of Buddha and bodhisattvas maintained their dignity and self-possession. Ian Johnson, The New Yorker, 18 Aug. 2024 Trump’s first wife is played by Maria Bakalova with savvy self-possession and what seems like full awareness of her husband’s negative attributes, plus a convenient ability to overlook them. David Rooney, The Hollywood Reporter, 20 May 2024 Doug said with a self-possession that caught Death Skull off guard. Simon Rich, The New Yorker, 6 May 2024 That dazzling self-possession is an aspect of her œuvre, which includes plays, essays, memoir, and fiction. The New Yorker, 12 Apr. 2024

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 23 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

self-possession

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