possess

How to Split "possess" into Syllables

The word possess is divided into 2 syllables: pos·sess. Understanding this syllable division is essential for correct pronunciation and spelling.

📝 Syllable Breakdown

• pos — 1st syllable
• sess — 2nd syllable

🔊 Pronunciation Guide

The phonetic transcription of possess:

• IPA: /pəˈzɛs/

📖 Definitions

1. possess (third-person singular simple present possesses, present participle possessing, simple past and past participle possessed)
2. To have (something) as, or as if as, an owner; to have, to own.

📚 Word Origin & History

From Middle English possessen (“to have, own; to obtain possession of; to inhabit, occupy”) [and other forms], from Middle French possesser, possessier, Old French possesser, possessier (“to have, own, possess; to dominate”), from Latin possessus (“possessed; seized”), the perfect passive participle of possideō (“to have, hold, own, possess; to have possessions; to take control or possession of, occupy, seize; to abide, inhabit, occupy; to dominate”), from potis (“able, capabl...

✓ Why Learn Syllable Division?

Understanding how to break down possess into syllables helps with:

• Correct pronunciation — Knowing syllable structure ensures accurate speech
• Improved spelling — Breaking words into chunks makes them easier to remember and write
• Reading fluency — Recognizing syllable patterns speeds up reading comprehension
• Poetry and lyrics — Syllable counting is essential for meter and rhythm
• Language learning — Non-native speakers benefit from syllable awareness

📊 Similar Words Comparison

Compare possess with related words to understand syllable patterns:

Word	Syllables	Division
possess	2	pos·sess
PC	1	pc
PBS	1	pbs
poesy	2	poe-sy
peak	1	peak

🔗 Related Words

Explore syllable divisions of words related to possess:

pose, posh, poss, Post, posy, poser, posit, posse.