What does repossess mean?
Repossess is a verb meaning to take back property, goods, or another asset after the person responsible for it has failed to meet an obligation, most often failing to make required payments. It is especially common in discussions of lenders, vehicles, homes, and other property bought on credit, where repossession is usually authorized by a contract and carried out under legal procedures. The word can also be used more broadly to mean regaining possession of something lost or taken. In financial contexts, “repossess a car” is a familiar combination. The prefix re- indicates that possession is being restored, while the word carries a generally formal and sometimes confrontational tone because it describes enforcement against a debtor. Figurative uses, such as repossessing a title or championship, emphasize recovery after a loss.
To take back property or goods from someone who has failed to meet a financial or contractual obligation, especially by legal or contractual enforcement.
"The finance company repossessed the truck when the company could no longer meet its repayments."
Usually used when a lender or owner takes back property, especially a vehicle, home, or item bought on credit.
To regain possession of something that has been lost, taken, or surrendered.
"The players were determined to repossess the cup after their earlier victory."
This extended use is less common than the financial sense and often appears in figurative or sports contexts.
Repossess means “possess again”: it describes taking back something that was once yours or your lender’s property after the agreed terms were broken.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does repossess come from?
Repossess was formed in English by combining the prefix re- with possess, meaning to hold or own. The underlying verb possess comes through Old French possesser from Latin possidere, formed from potis, meaning “able” or “powerful,” and sedere, meaning “to sit.” The related word dispossess has the same Latin foundation but expresses the opposite action of taking property away.
Related word forms
How repossess is actually used
The word is most commonly used in legal and financial contexts, particularly for vehicles, homes, and other property obtained on credit. It can sound formal or severe, and in extended or figurative uses it may imply an aggressive or determined recovery.
Easily confused with repossess
To possess something is simply to own or hold it; to repossess it is to take it back after possession has been lost through nonpayment or another breach of obligation.