harnessing

VERB

rein in; control

Synonyms

STRONGEST

curb exploit mobilize tackle tame utilize

STRONG

accouter apply bind bridle channel check cinch collar constrain couple domesticate employ equip fasten fetter fit furnish gear govern hitch hold leash limit muzzle outfit rig saddle secure strap tie yoke

WEAK

make productive put in harness render useful

Antonyms

STRONG

allow detach disconnect disjoin free let go liberate loose loosen lose permit release set free unchain unfasten unlock untie

WEAK

unharness

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Harnessing happenstance has led to inventions that have changed the world—from extending the lives of cardiac patients to overhauling how humans eat.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 4, 2026

Harnessing market forces to get better outcomes for consumers, in addition to smart regulation, is as American as apple pie.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 26, 2026

Harnessing attention is one thing, but keeping it is another entirely.

From Salon • Jan. 23, 2026

Harnessing AI’s promise requires pairing technical acceleration with emotional maturity.

From MarketWatch • Dec. 18, 2025

“Yes, of course, Shelibar. Though my esteemed colleague may not remember Mubiel’s Harnessing the Dark and Light. Which is really much less superstitious than Shelibar.”

From "The Assassination of Brangwain Spurge" by M.T. Anderson and Eugene Yelchin