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 Both were federally charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl. — Robert McGreevy, FOXNews.com, 3 July 2026 This medium would have to be ubiquitous and possess some unique properties to allow light to propagate through it at the speed of light. — Robert Lea, Space.com, 3 July 2026 In 1775, the first year of the American Revolutionary War, Britain possessed double the famous 13 colonies in North America alone, with many in Canada and the Greater Caribbean – including East and West Florida. — Sarah M.s. Pearsall, The Conversation, 2 July 2026 In 1999, authorities jailed Gadd for possessing child pornography. — Kory Grow, Rolling Stone, 2 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for possess

Recent Examples of Synonyms for possess

Verb

The landmark property celebrates the style of the sixties, when air travel still had a spark of glamor.

— Allison Tibaldi, USA Today, 4 July 2026
The Chiefs have a world championship banner hanging atop the press box.

— Sam McDowell Updated July 3, Kansas City Star, 4 July 2026

Definition of have

Verb

For example, creators probably will retain ownership and control of their IP, said Ty Flynn, a partner and agent at UTA’s Creators division.

— Cerys Davies, Los Angeles Times, 8 July 2026
The trustees approved retaining the securities monitoring firm of Berger Montague to represent the system in this case.

— Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 7 July 2026

Definition of retain

Verb

Defense stocks have enjoyed a bumper year in 2026, as conflicts from Ukraine to Iran increase demand for munitions worldwide.

— Lim Hui Jie, CNBC, 6 July 2026
With estimated sales totaling €32 billion and a growth rate between 4-6% for 2025, jewelry seems to be enjoying its brightest summer yet.

— Milena Martins-Alexandre, Vogue, 6 July 2026

Definition of enjoy

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posses

possess

possessed

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“Possess.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/possess. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of possess

verb

Example Sentences

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