possessive

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

With her husband so frequently absent, child-rearing fell almost entirely to Frances, who proved a loving but possessive mother.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 12, 2026

Ms Pilley, 38, had recently ended her year-long secret relationship with Gilroy, who was described in court as possessive and manipulative.

From BBC • Aug. 6, 2025

Laundrie objected, saying he felt "neglected" and eventually became possessive.

From Salon • Feb. 19, 2025

As it moved through TikTok and Instagram, the term focused solely on the plural possessive, as people jokingly addressed their intangible audiences.

From Slate • Nov. 3, 2024

When the Nolans walked into the front room on their first possessive tour of inspection, the piano was the only thing that Francie saw.

From "A Tree Grows in Brooklyn" by Betty Smith