Possessively

Part of speech: adverb

Definitions

1. in a way that demonstrates an ownership mentality or emotional bond to an object or individual
2. in a style that reflects a strong urge to dominate or claim, revealing attachment towards a person or possession
3. In a manner that expresses control or claim over an item or person

Etymology: "Possessively" is a plain formation: the adjective "possessive" with the adverbial suffix "-ly" added. The suffix has a long lineage. It traces back through Proto-Germanic "-līkaz" (a word for "body" or "form") and Old English "-līċe," which became Middle English "-ly" and then the modern ending. The adjective "possessive" comes from the same Latin base as "possess," which is the more visible root here. The suffix itself is the older and more interesting piece. A form-word meaning "body" or "appearance" was gradually worn down into a grammatical ending, so that "-ly" now simply marks manner. "Possessively" therefore means, literally, "in a possessive manner," with the jealous sense of the adjective carried straight into the adverb.