prepossessed
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: //ˌpriːpəˈzɛst//
KK: /priˈpɑsɛst/
adjective
Definition
Having a strong opinion or feeling about something, often in a way that is not fair or balanced.
Example
She was prepossessed by her own ideas and couldn't see other perspectives.
Conversation
Did you notice how prepossessed she seemed about her favorite team?
Yeah, it's like she can't see any faults in them at all.
It's interesting how being a fan can make you prepossessed sometimes.
Definitely! It clouds their judgment in a fun way.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
biased
partial
inclined
Antonyms
impartial
neutral
unbiased
verb
Definition
To have a strong influence or control over someone's mind or feelings, often in a way that makes them favorably inclined towards something or someone.
Example
She was prepossessed by his charm and confidence during their first meeting.
Tense Forms
Past: prepossessed
Past Participle: prepossessed
Conversation
I can't believe how quickly she prepossessed the audience during her speech.
Right? Her confidence really pulled everyone in.
I wish I could learn to speak like that; it's so inspiring.
Root Explanation
Prepossessed → It is formed from "pre-" (meaning before) and "possess" (from Latin "possidere", meaning to hold or own) and the suffix "-ed" (indicating a past participle). The word "prepossessed" means to have a strong pre-existing opinion or belief about something before encountering it.
Memory Tip
Think of having a strong opinion or belief 'before' ('pre-') you actually 'own' or 'hold' ('possess') an idea or experience.
Visually Confused Words
unrepossessed
forepossessed
unprepossessedly
repossess
possessed