as in to have
to keep, control, or experience as one's own
she possesses a keen insight into people
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Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of possess
More recent research has shown that star anise possesses antiviral, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
—
Cody Godwin, USA Today, 3 Feb. 2026
Trump has also left the door open to resuming nuclear deal negotiations that collapsed last summer, something the regime has signaled openness to despite their denials of ever desiring or possessing nuclear weapons.
—Zach Lachance, The Washington Examiner, 2 Feb. 2026
There is no requirement for a common interest community association such as a townhome association, or even a condominium association, to be audited by the state of Illinois if the association possesses assets over $100,000.
—Howard Dakoff, Chicago Tribune, 1 Feb. 2026
Hunter, 28, is a 6-foot-7, 221-pound forward who possesses exceptional length with a 7-2 wingspan.
—Jason Anderson, Sacbee.com, 1 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for possess
Cody Godwin, USA Today, 3 Feb. 2026
Trump has also left the door open to resuming nuclear deal negotiations that collapsed last summer, something the regime has signaled openness to despite their denials of ever desiring or possessing nuclear weapons.
—Zach Lachance, The Washington Examiner, 2 Feb. 2026
There is no requirement for a common interest community association such as a townhome association, or even a condominium association, to be audited by the state of Illinois if the association possesses assets over $100,000.
—Howard Dakoff, Chicago Tribune, 1 Feb. 2026
Hunter, 28, is a 6-foot-7, 221-pound forward who possesses exceptional length with a 7-2 wingspan.
—Jason Anderson, Sacbee.com, 1 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for possess
Recent Examples of Synonyms for possess
Verb
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Known for combining high fashion with streetwear, Bad Bunny has a reputation for adventurous and subversive style.—
Oscar Holland,
CNN Money,
9 Feb. 2026
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Judges in counties with the program have a list of OFR attorneys who can be contacted and paid through legislative appropriations, rather than through court funds.—
Raynee Howell,
Oklahoma Watch,
9 Feb. 2026
Verb
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The company expects to close a deal in the spring to sell 60% of its China business to Boyu Capital, while retaining a 40% stake.—
Evelyn Cheng,
CNBC,
8 Feb. 2026
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The next year, he was appointed sheriff, but lost an election in 2016 to retain the position.—
Peter D'Abrosca , Alexandra Koch,
FOXNews.com,
8 Feb. 2026
Verb
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The audio-first company, which is owned by the Graham family — the Post’s owners before Bezos — plans to introduce original reporting, and will pick up some local beats, including sports and metro coverage.—
Max Tani,
semafor.com,
5 Feb. 2026
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In the film, O’Hara’s Cookie and her hapless husband, Gerry (played by Eugene Levy), own a Norwich terrier named Winky who is competing for best in show.—
Michaela Zee,
Variety,
4 Feb. 2026
Verb
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Ready to enjoy softer strands and skip the greasy feeling?—
Grace McCarty,
Glamour,
6 Feb. 2026
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This selection of quick and easy appetizers will have you out of the kitchen in no time, and enjoying the fun with your friends and family.—
Mary Alice Russell,
Southern Living,
6 Feb. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Possess.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/possess. Accessed 10 Feb. 2026.
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