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

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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 Millions of people were arrested for possessing and selling marijuana and hundreds of thousands were incarcerated, some receiving life sentences. — Bob Woods, CNBC, 15 Aug. 2026 Hoodoo accords a prominent role to collections of materials, often assembled into sacks or bags, that are deemed to possess supernatural power. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 14 Aug. 2026 The irony inherent in their apprenticeship is that John, an overeducated, overqualified Black millennial who possesses every skill a Lantern could conceivably need, has already spent his entire life training to do what Hal does. — Judy Berman, Time, 14 Aug. 2026 He is forbidden from having any contact with the victim, possessing any guns, and from possessing or consuming drugs or alcohol. — Shira Moolten, Sun Sentinel, 14 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for possess

Recent Examples of Synonyms for possess

Verb

This assortment features best sellers including the 24/7 Classic T-Shirt Bra, which has support, comfort adjustable straps and no-show double-layer back.

— ABC News, ABC News, 15 Aug. 2026
White Water's diminutive cocktail bar has awesome bottled cocktails served in proper glassware that make for the perfect sundowner to carry across the boardwalk to soak up golden hour over the Pacific.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 15 Aug. 2026

Definition of have

Verb

The referendum would allow the city to enter into a management agreement with a private company while retaining ownership of the stadium and surrounding property.

— Sergio Candido, CBS News, 19 Aug. 2026
For communities facing population loss, an aging workforce, or struggling to retain young professionals and skilled workers, attracting new residents can make economic sense.

— Meggen Harris, Forbes.com, 19 Aug. 2026

Definition of retain

Verb

Andreina Martinez owns Don Tequeno, a Venezuelan restaurant along the parade route in Jamaica Plain.

— Paul Burton, CBS News, 17 Aug. 2026
Leno and Rosemary LaBianca, a middle-aged couple who owned a local chain of grocery stores, would be found dead in their Los Feliz home the following night.

— Elisabeth Garber-Paul, Rolling Stone, 16 Aug. 2026

Definition of own

Verb

Nutty and sweet coconut shrimp is a delightful way to enjoy shellfish.

— Kate Williams, AJC.com, 17 Aug. 2026
Their homes were not like the large estates found in wealthier Colorado mountain towns, but smaller structures where their blue-collar families went to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

— Noelle Phillips, Denver Post, 16 Aug. 2026

Definition of enjoy

Browse Nearby Words

posses

possess

possessed

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“Possess.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/possess. Accessed 21 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of possess

verb

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