self-possessed

[ self-puh-zest, self- ]

adjective

1. having or showing control of one's feelings, behavior, etc.; composed; poised.

   Synonyms: sedate, cool, serene, collected, calm

self-possessed

adjective

1. having control of one's emotions, etc

Derived Forms

• ˌself-posˈsession, noun
• ˌself-posˈsessedly, adverb

Other Words From

• self-pos·sess·ed·ly [self, -p, uh, -, zes, -id-lee, -, zest, -lee, self-], adverb
• unself-pos·sessed adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of self-possessed¹

First recorded in 1760–70

Example Sentences

My wise, self-possessed, inspirational friend says, “Cultivate your happy,” to balance the scales.

From Salon

Even more frightening is that she presents as intelligent and self-possessed.

From Salon

Through the school office she arranged to buy the piece for $250, and she soon became friendly with Ms. Mackler, a brassy, self-possessed presence at the school.

From New York Times

He’s a more intense, self-possessed knockoff of David, whom he draws dissolving in an acid bath, being ripped apart by wild animals or burning in hell for his “misdeed.”

From Los Angeles Times

Immaculately groomed and entirely self-possessed, Siobhan bestrides the world of public relations like an expertly contoured colossus.

From New York Times