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Definition of possessiveness

possessiveness

/pəˈzɛsɪvnəs/
pos · ses · sive · ness
Adverb:possessively
•
Adjective:possessive
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possessiveness Lexical Profile

possessiveness Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

An excessive desire to monopolize someone's attention, affection, or loyalty, often accompanied by jealousy or an unwillingness to grant independence.

Example

"His growing possessiveness eventually strained their friendship and drove his closest companions away."

2

A strong inclination to retain exclusive ownership or control over material belongings and refuse to share them with others.

Example

"Toddlers frequently display a natural possessiveness over their favorite toys before learning how to share."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for possessiveness
Antonyms
View all antonyms for possessiveness

• Rhymes for possessiveness

• Nearby Words

possession
possessive
possessively
possessiveness
possessor
possibility
possible

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Possessiveness. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/possessiveness
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