possesses

Possesses is the third-person singular present tense of the verb possess. To possess means to have as belonging to oneself; to own, hold, or exercise control over something. The term can refer to tangible property, rights, or attributes, as well as capabilities or conditions. The word derives from Latin possidere, via Old French possesser.

Usage and nuance: Possess can indicate legal ownership or simple physical control. A person can possess a car without owning it, or own something without actively possessing it at all times. In everyday language you might say "The company possesses valuable patents" or "She possesses a rare talent."

Legal context: In law, possession is a separate concept from ownership. Actual possession is physical control; constructive possession is the power to control even if not in direct custody. Possession can be established jointly, and it can affect criminal liability for possession of illegal items, contraband, or evidence. Title or ownership may be different from possession, and possession rights can influence tenancy, bailment, and other legal relationships.

Other uses: In historical, sociological, or paranormal contexts, possession can refer to a person being controlled by an external agent or spirit. In such contexts, "possessing" describes the act, while "possesses" would be used for a subject performing the action in the present tense. Possession is also a common term in discussions of knowledge, skills, or attributes someone possesses.