Synonyms of possess

possess

verb

pə-ˈzes 

as in to have

to keep, control, or experience as one's own

she possesses a keen insight into people

Synonyms & Similar Words

• have
• retain
• own
• enjoy
• hold
• command
• keep
• carry
• withhold
• rejoice in
• reserve
• boast
• sport
• bear
• show off

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• want
• lack
• relinquish
• yield
• renounce
• abandon
• surrender
• require
• discard
• need
• reject
• dump
• cede
• disclaim
• hand over
• repudiate
• decline
• disown
• spurn

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of possess

Nikko Remigio likely will be the primary return man, but Smith possesses better big-play ability. — Blair Kerkhoff, Kansas City Star, 29 Aug. 2026

Kelly, a supremely talented showman and dancer, already possesses the ability to move his body in ways that seem impossible to most of the audience. — James Grebey, Vulture, 28 Aug. 2026

The technology is now at the center of a push at the California State Capitol to prohibit law enforcement agencies in the state from possessing or using the devices. — Darrielle Fair, CBS News, 28 Aug. 2026

Among the three main economic players today, China is the most vulnerable, the United States has the most capacity to reduce its exposure, and Europe possesses latent power but a dubious ability to use it. — Michael Pettis, Foreign Affairs, 28 Aug. 2026