possesses; possessed; possessing
possesses; possessed; possessing
Learner's definition of POSSESS
[+ object]
1
formal : to have or own (something)有；拥有 -
nations that possess nuclear weapons拥有核武器的国家
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The defendant was charged with possessing cocaine.被告被指控持有可卡因。
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The ruby was once possessed by an ancient queen.这颗红宝石曾为古代的一位皇后所有。
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He dreams of someday possessing great wealth.他梦想着有一天能拥有万贯家财。
2
: to have or show (a particular quality, ability, skill, etc.)具有，展现出（某种特质、能力、技术等） -
He possesses a keen wit.他机智敏捷。
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The drug possesses the potential to suppress tumors.这种药物也许能抑制肿瘤。
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Do dolphins possess the ability to use language?海豚具有使用语言的能力吗？
3
a of spirits : to enter into and control (someone)（幽灵）操控，支配 —
often used as (be) possessed常用作(be) possessed b of emotions : to have a powerful effect on (someone)（感情）深深影响 -
They were possessed by fear. [=they were very afraid]他们当时十分恐惧。
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A terrible rage possessed her at that moment. [=she became filled with rage]当时她怒火中烧。
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Whatever possessed him to say such a stupid thing? [=why did he say such a stupid thing?]他怎么说出了这么愚蠢的话？
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She was acting like a fool. I don't know what possessed her. [=I don't know why she acted that way]她表现得就像个傻子，我不知道她中了什么邪。
be possessed of
literary
: to have (a particular quality, ability, skill, etc.)具有（某种特质、能力、技术等）