Synonyms for

Possessing

Verb / pʌˈzesɪŋ / Another word for possessing — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Having or owning something.

Synonyms & similar words

have own possess having owning holding carrying bearing acquiring gaining securing receiving attaining obtaining procuring keeping retaining occupying dominating controlling governing inhabiting residing

Synonyms by register

Formal

owning holding containing comprising

Informal

having got holding

Literary

owning endowed with imbued with

Antonyms

lacking wanting needing deprived without empty

Common collocations

  • possessing great wealth
  • possessing a skill
  • possessing knowledge
  • possessing courage
  • possessing the ability
  • possessing a unique quality
  • possessing a strong sense

Word family

noun possession
verb possess
adjective possessive

Usage note

The verb 'possess' often implies a more permanent or inherent quality than 'have'. It can also sound more formal.

Example sentences

  1. He is possessing a lot of money.
  2. She is possessing a rare book.
  3. The cat is possessing a toy mouse.
  4. The king is possessing a huge kingdom.
  5. The athlete is possessing a strong body.

Quotes

  • I am not possessed by possessions.
  • Possession is nine-tenths of the law.
  • Possession isn't nine-tenths of the law. It's nine-tenths of the problem.

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