possessory

adjective

pos·​ses·​so·​ry pə-ˈze-sə-rē How to pronounce possessory (audio)
-ˈzes-rē,
 also  -ˈse-sə-rē,
 or  -ˈses-rē
1
: of, arising from, or having the nature of possession
possessory rights
2
: having possession
3
: characteristic of a possessor : possessive

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web In Texas, there are three types of conservatorships with a child: a joint managing conservator, a sole managing conservator and a possessory conservator. Gabriela Miranda, USA TODAY, 24 June 2021 After the possessory term, the other half of the home can transfer to a separate QPRT for the prime benefit of the descendants. Alan Gassman, Forbes, 3 June 2021 The numbers were based on sales, hotel, property and possessory interest taxes. Phillip Molnar, sandiegouniontribune.com, 12 July 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'possessory.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of possessory was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near possessory

Cite this Entry

“Possessory.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/possessory. Accessed 25 Mar. 2023.

Legal Definition

possessory

adjective
pos·​ses·​so·​ry pə-ˈze-sə-rē How to pronounce possessory (audio)
1
: of, arising from, involving, or having the nature of possession
possessory rights
a possessory action
2
: having possession
a possessory owner

More from Merriam-Webster on possessory

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