POSSESS Synonyms: 34 Similar and Opposite Words

possess

verb

pə-ˈzes

Definition of possess

as in to have

to keep, control, or experience as one's own she possesses a keen insight into people

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of possess In November 2016, the Chargers possessed the resources to force a decision, but not the coalition to win one. — Eddie Brown, San Diego Union-Tribune, 6 Nov. 2026 In nations like Peru, which possessed rich natural resources, liberationists tailored their economic justice projects to address how international and national companies profited off the low wages of miners and farmers. — Eben Levey, The Conversation, 6 Nov. 2026 This also showcases the vast potential of this young artist — who possesses both vocal prowess and creative talent — on the international stage. — Billboard China, Billboard, 6 Nov. 2026 Morgenthau saw in Lincoln a rare leader who was never possessed by power, instead possessing it and, ultimately, subordinating it to transcendent values. — David Sacks, Foreign Affairs, 6 Nov. 2026 See All Example Sentences for possess

Recent Examples of Synonyms for possess

Verb

There are two methods for deducting mileage and each has different IRS requirements.

— Marc Guberti, CNBC, 14 Nov. 2026
The kitchen usually has a supply of chicken nuggets and other kid-friendly foods on hand, as many of the entrées served, particularly at dinner, are generally sophisticated or rich.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 14 Nov. 2026

Definition of have

Verb

Nvidia’s board confirmed that Mr Huang retains its confidence and will continue to lead the company.

— Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 9 Nov. 2026
The administration will retain control of the research agencies, and funding legislation will remain subject to presidential veto.

— Carole LaBonne, Washington Post, 8 Nov. 2026

Definition of retain

Verb

Students and faculty shouldn’t have to finance years of litigation to enjoy the expressive freedoms their universities promise.

— Ilya Shapiro, Washington Post, 8 Nov. 2026
In any case, theatrical releases or (re-releases) of popular TV shows are all gravy for cinema operators, who are enjoying the biggest year at the box office since the onset of the pandemic.

— Rebecca Rubin, Variety, 8 Nov. 2026

Definition of enjoy

Browse Nearby Words

posses

possess

possessed

See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

Style

“Possess.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/possess. Accessed 14 Nov. 2026.

Copy Citation

Synonyms of possess

verb

Example Sentences

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

More from Merriam-Webster

Word of the Day

boilerplate

Popular in Grammar & Usage

How to Use 'Who' vs. 'Whom'

31 Useful Rhetorical Devices

More Commonly Misspelled Words

Merriam-Webster’s Great Big List of Words You Love to Hate

'Affect' vs. 'Effect'

Popular in Wordplay

Great Big List of Beautiful and Useless Words, Vol. 5

9 Words That Sound Like Insults But Aren't

The Longest Long Words List

The Words of the Week - Nov. 13

Even More Bird Names that Sound Like Insults (and Sometimes Are)

Popular

How to Use 'Who' vs. 'Whom'

Great Big List of Beautiful and Useless Words, Vol. 5

9 Words That Sound Like Insults But Aren't

Games & Quizzes