self-possessed

adjective

ˌself-pə-ˈzest How to pronounce self-possessed (audio)
Definition of self-possessednext
as in calm
free from emotional or mental agitation a supremely self-possessed teacher who could handle any crisis

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of self-possessed Early on, Hamilton is self-possessed, her carriage underscoring her as an arbiter of social good, the gracious hostess. — Christopher Smith, Oc Register, 2 Feb. 2026 The version of you that steps forward now feels more self-possessed, radiant, and rooted. — Dossé-Via Trenou, Refinery29, 21 Sep. 2025 Even for someone used to covering for her daughter’s wrongdoings, Tracey is remarkably self-possessed as Laura pries mercilessly into her life and accuses Cherry of every crime under the sun. — Rafaela Bassili, Vulture, 10 Sep. 2025 Relaxed yet intentional, refined yet understated, self-possessed and naturally shareable. — Advertorial, Footwear News, 3 Sep. 2019 See All Example Sentences for self-possessed
Recent Examples of Synonyms for self-possessed
  1. calm
  2. serene
  3. peaceful
  4. composed
  5. collected
  6. possessed
  7. tranquil
Adjective
  • Expect a calm palette of neutrals and soft blues, metallic accents, and plenty of natural light, with views either west toward the mountains and desert or north up the Strip.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 15 Aug. 2026
  • The extra five minutes spent adjusting a pillow so the incision is protected, the calm explanation of what the next day will look like, the quiet competence that makes a terrifying situation feel manageable—these moments stick.
    — Richard Menger MD MPA, Forbes.com, 15 Aug. 2026
Definition of calm
Adjective
  • Life begins as a fanfare — a regal entry heralded by brass — and ends as a solo cello lament and the serene acceptance of death as sung by a choir.
    — Tim Greiving, Los Angeles Times, 11 Aug. 2026
  • The serene hideaway is decked out in soft furnishings like wool rugs and bouclé sofas.
    — Tori Latham, Robb Report, 10 Aug. 2026
Definition of serene
Adjective
  • The work that Afghan women are doing today is essential to preserving the possibility of a peaceful and economically viable Afghanistan.
    — Rina Amiri, Foreign Affairs, 14 Aug. 2026
  • Culiacán—even during its most peaceful stretches—has been a prime example.
    — Kevin Sieff, The Atlantic, 13 Aug. 2026
Definition of peaceful
Adjective
  • Barbie’s hair choices, too, are ever so composed and elegant.
    — Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 29 July 2026
  • Replacement Ryunosuke Ito, plucked from Meiji University, had a composed debut, including laying on a try for Matsunaga, who was five for five off the tee.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 4 July 2026
Definition of composed
Adjective
  • Data brokers legally comb the internet for such information, build profiles using the collected information, and sell those profiles to anyone who’ll pay.
    — Neil J. Rubenking, PC Magazine, 10 Aug. 2026
  • Paired with the Emme play table, this duo creates the kind of collected look that feels professionally layered.
    — Vy Yang, Architectural Digest, 31 July 2026
Definition of collected
Adjective
  • Religious horror films offer narratives of meaning, mystery, and morality, shaping how power, belief, and the body—both pure and possessed—are understood.
    — Ryan Lattanzio, IndieWire, 8 July 2026
  • But no homes are so possessed with pottery of the truly enormous variety as Jeremiah Brent and Nate Berkus, whose Portuguese farmhouse appears on the cover of our June issue.
    — Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 22 May 2026
Definition of possessed
Adjective
  • Bedrooms are tranquil and restorative, with clean lines, balconies, and mountain views that create a sense of space.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 9 July 2026
  • Located right across the water from Miami, Key Biscayne is filled with tranquil experiences in nature, delicious dining options with incredible views of the water, and even a little bit of history to explore.
    — Lisa Cericola, Southern Living, 13 June 2026
Definition of tranquil

Browse Nearby Words

self-poised
self-possessed
self-possessedly
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Cite this Entry

“Self-possessed.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/self-possessed. Accessed 16 Aug. 2026.

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