self-possession

noun

self-pos·​ses·​sion ˌself-pə-ˈze-shən 

also -ˈse-

: control of one's emotions or reactions especially when under stress : presence of mind, composure

Synonyms of self-possession

• composure

Choose the Right Synonym for self-possession

confidence, assurance, self-possession, aplomb mean a state of mind or a manner marked by easy coolness and freedom from uncertainty, diffidence, or embarrassment.

confidence stresses faith in oneself and one's powers without any suggestion of conceit or arrogance.

the confidence that comes from long experience

assurance carries a stronger implication of certainty and may suggest arrogance or lack of objectivity in assessing one's own powers.

handled the cross-examination with complete assurance

self-possession implies an ease or coolness under stress that reflects perfect self-control and command of one's powers.

answered the insolent question with complete self-possession

aplomb implies a manifest self-possession in trying or challenging situations.

handled the reporters with great aplomb

Examples of self-possession in a Sentence

that neurosurgeon's self-possession in the operating room is legendary

the little girl's self-possession very occasionally gave way to crying fits

Recent Examples on the Web

In this way, the film becomes a manifesto for alternate destinies within the Black experience, and a semi-formal goodbye letter to the delusional but politically expedient optimism of the 2010s, wherein the end of the neoliberal order becomes a gateway to renewed self-possession and agency. —Los Angeles Times, 4 Mar. 2026

Shawn joins us a moment later, and he is reserved, not hostile but preternaturally wary, measuring out his words with pauses and deference cut with self-possession. —Christopher Bonanos, Vulture, 23 Feb. 2026

Claude has gained a devoted following for its strange sense of mild self-possession. —Gideon Lewis-Kraus, New Yorker, 9 Feb. 2026

But Vacancy, her first record solely under Interscope, doesn't completely abandon the self-possession and sensuality that's become synonymous with her sound. —Pitchfork, 23 Jan. 2026

These books are deliciously, counterintuitively ethical—each one an instruction manual on a woman’s process of self-possession—many of them eschewing patriarchal morality and asserting a more dichotomous and sensual set of virtues. —Diana Arterian, Literary Hub, 14 Nov. 2025

Hoodoo’s ancestral beauty rituals remind us of sacred glamour and the magic of self-possession and care. —Essence, 21 Oct. 2025

This interrupts automatic defensiveness and signals self-possession. —Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 14 Sep. 2025

The character’s defiant self-possession would unnerve even a more contemporary patriarchy, and challenge family dynamics in any era. —Jessica Kiang, Variety, 14 Aug. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1665, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for self-possession

• decompression
• dispossession
• indiscretion
• intercession
• introgression
• nonaggression
• prepossession
• recompression
• repossession
• retrocession
• retrogression
• supersession

Kids Definition

self-possession

noun

self-pos·​ses·​sion

ˌself-pə-ˈzesh-ən

: control of one's emotions or reactions : composure