self-possession

noun

self-pos·​ses·​sion ˌself-pə-ˈze-shən 

 also  -ˈse-

: control of one's emotions or reactions especially when under stress : presence of mind, composure

Synonyms

• aplomb
• calmness
• collectedness
• composedness
• composure
• cool
• coolness
• countenance
• equanimity
• equilibrium
• imperturbability
• placidity
• repose
• sangfroid
• self-composedness
• serenity
• tranquility
• tranquillity
• tranquilness

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

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

Kids Definition

self-possession

noun

self-pos·​ses·​sion

ˌself-pə-ˈzesh-ən

: control of one's emotions or reactions : composure