possessively

adverb

Meaning

In a manner showing a desire to own or control something exclusively, often with a sense of jealousy or over-protectiveness.

Examples

  • He gripped the steering wheel possessively as if he feared someone might try to take the car.
  • She looked at her new ring possessively, checking to see if anyone else had noticed its sparkle.

Synonyms: jealously, protectively, territorially, clannishly