The word "possess" means to have or own something, whether it's a physical object, a quality, or a skill. When you possess something, it is in your control or belongs to you. For example, if you possess a book, you own that book and have the right to use it as you wish.
The word "possess" comes from the Latin "possidere," where "pos" means "by" or "near," and "sedere" means "to sit." The combination implies sitting by or near something, akin to having control or ownership over it.