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 The assumption for years was that a patient who could not demonstrate awareness did not possess any. — Torie Bosch, STAT, 18 July 2026 Cervero Trujillo was previously convicted with a group for possessing with intent to distribute over five kilos of cocaine. — Syra Ortiz Blanes, Miami Herald, 18 July 2026 Tosh said authorities learned the suspect possessed an AR-15-style rifle and knives and had claimed to possess grenades. — David Benda, USA Today, 18 July 2026 After all, both made their breakthroughs at Barcelona, both play on the right and both possess outrageous natural talent. — Ben Church, CNN Money, 17 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for possess

Recent Examples of Synonyms for possess

Verb

Critically, these sporting sanctions do not apply to 2027-28 if Newcastle are profitable on football earnings in 2026-27 and have an SCR ratio below 70 per cent throughout 2026.

— Chris Weatherspoon, New York Times, 18 July 2026
Griffin Conine homered and Otto Lopez had two hits for the Marlins, who also lost their last three games before the break.

— Miami Herald, Miami Herald, 18 July 2026

Definition of have

Verb

Some members and associates of the Seidler family are expected to retain at least a portion of their stakes in the Padres.

— Dennis Lin, New York Times, 22 July 2026
The extradition process requires a hearing before a US judge to determine whether the treaty’s requirements are met, but the final decision is made by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who retains discretion to deny extradition.

— Julianna Bragg, CNN Money, 21 July 2026

Definition of retain

Verb

The foundation was also part of a group of philanthropic organizations that helped finance the acquisition of property owned by Twin Pines Minerals, which had planned to mine the eastern edge of the swamp.

— Drew Kann, AJC.com, 20 July 2026
In June, Suzanne Scheller, the attorney for Lynch's family, filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Presbyterian Homes, which owns Harbor Crossing.

— Jordan Rau, NPR, 19 July 2026

Definition of own

Verb

But, at Kelli’s urging, instead of reflecting on going too far or just calling it a night to cool off, Shamea still meets the other woman at the club, determined to enjoy Scottish nightlife.

— Ile-Ife Okantah, Vulture, 20 July 2026
Eyewear is enjoying its moment in the fashion spotlight, attracting consumers in search of self-expression as much as optical support.

— Joe Bobowicz, Vogue, 20 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 24 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of possess

verb

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