possesses

VERB

have or obtain

Synonyms

STRONGEST

acquire carry enjoy maintain occupy own retain seize

STRONG

bear control corner dominate grab hog hold

WEAK

be blessed with be born with be endowed with corner the market get hands on get hold of have to name latch on to lock up sit on take over take possession

Antonyms

STRONGEST

fail free lack let go lose need release surrender yield

STRONG

abandon forsake

WEAK

dispossess miss not have

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.

Some of these weapons can be replaced by far cheaper, slightly less capable systems that the U.S. possesses in large quantity.

From Slate • Apr. 24, 2026

“Intel possesses some of the most vital assets necessary to be successful and to flourish in this era of extraordinary opportunity for the semiconductor industry,” Tan said late Thursday.

From Barron's • Apr. 24, 2026

He possesses a deep understanding of markets and is trusted by leaders across the financial industry.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 20, 2026

He possesses just enough pitches — a fastball and a splitter — to last two innings, tops.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 17, 2026

“You can’t survive the death serum without an inoculation, and I’m the only person in the compound who possesses that substance.”

From "Allegiant" by Veronica Roth