possessory

adjective

pos·​ses·​so·​ry pə-ˈze-sə-rē 

-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

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Legal Definition

possessory

adjective

pos·​ses·​so·​ry pə-ˈze-sə-rē 

1

: of, arising from, involving, or having the nature of possession

possessory rights

a possessory action

2

: having possession

a possessory owner