possessido

Possessido is a term used in Portuguese-language discourse to refer to a person believed to be under the control of a supernatural entity, such as a demon, spirit, or deity. In many traditions, the possessido is described as having a will or voice different from their own, with behavior or abilities attributed to the controlling entity. The form possessido appears in some texts and transliterations, but the standard Portuguese term is possuído, the past participle of possuir.

Etymology and usage

The concept derives from the verb to possess, and across languages it spans a range of beliefs about control, influence, and communication with the unseen. In Portuguese, possuído is the common form; possessido may appear in older literature, regional varieties, or as a direct translation from other languages. The underlying idea—in which a external power is said to inhabit or override a person—appears in multiple religious and cultural contexts.

Cultural and religious contexts

Possession is described in Catholic, Afro-Brazilian, Spiritist, and other religious traditions, but with divergent interpretations. In Catholicism, possession is often treated as demonic and may be addressed through exorcism or deliverance rites. In Afro-Brazilian religions such as Candomblé and Umbanda, possession by orixás or espíritos is a central, structured practice. Spiritist and certain folk-belief systems view possession as communication with spirits or guidance received through a medium.

Symptoms and interpretation

Reported symptoms vary widely and are interpreted within cultural frameworks. They may include changes in voice or demeanor, unfamiliar knowledge or abilities, aversion to sacred objects, or episodes described as temporary loss of control. In modern contexts, such phenomena are sometimes considered in conjunction with psychological or neurologic explanations.

In media and culture

Possession is a common motif in literature, film, and television, often explored as a test of faith, morality, or identity.

See also: possession, exorcism, demonology, spirit possession.