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
  • Strikes in the region have been relatively calmer over the past few days, although Kuwait said Iran hit a building belonging to a Chinese company in the northern part of the country on Thursday, killing one employee.
    — Sophie Tanno, CNN Money, 2 Aug. 2026
  • The patented, portable Ready Rocker is ergonomically designed to help alleviate discomfort, relieve back pain, reduce stress, calm anxiety and improve sleep, fitting both deep and shallow seating with two rocking positions.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 1 Aug. 2026
Definition of calm
Adjective
  • Most of the Barbados hotels worth their salt are peppered along the Platinum Coast (on the west side), where the water is calm and the beaches serene.
    — Jonnie Bayfield, Condé Nast Traveler, 19 July 2026
  • On-site lodging includes 10 cabins and 60 campsites, offering a serene nature retreat.
    — Korrin Bishop, Southern Living, 18 July 2026
Definition of serene
Adjective
  • This peaceful apartment sits on the first floor of an authentic Basque house and is ideal for a couple traveling alone (or with a child).
    — Nicole Kliest, Vogue, 31 July 2026
  • Kim Kardashian is enjoying some peaceful time on the lake with her family this summer.
    — Meg Walters, InStyle, 31 July 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
  • For several years, large majorities of Americans have reported being concerned about how companies use their data, while also having minimal understanding of how collected data is actually used.
    — David Henkin, Forbes.com, 20 July 2026
  • The collected luggage includes roller bags, duffel bags, suitcases and backpacks.
    — Evy Lewis, Chicago Tribune, 19 June 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 2 Aug. 2026.

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