possession

Definition of possessionnext
1
as in hands
the fact or state of having (something) at one's disposal a student who was found to have several overdue library books in his possession

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

2
3
as in occupancy
the act or fact of residing in a place squatters had established possession in the abandoned warehouse

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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 possession Unlike traditional mummy films featuring sarcophagi, this version focuses on body horror and themes of grief, framing the daughter’s transformation as a grotesque possession story. Erik Kain, Forbes.com, 4 July 2026 While France had over 80% possession in the first half, neither team had a shot on target and the state of play gave the impression that things were playing into Paraguay’s hands heading into the next 45 minutes. Patrick Sung Cuadrado, CNN Money, 4 July 2026 Iran responded both times in a classic cat-and-mouse game that included 31 shots, 12 on target and a near-even possession split (51 to New Zealand and 49 to Iran). Anantaajith Raghuraman, New York Times, 4 July 2026 On the Valkyries’ next offensive possession, Kaila Charles hit a corner 3-pointer to put them up five with just over a minute remaining. Nathan Canilao, Mercury News, 4 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for possession
Recent Examples of Synonyms for possession
Noun
  • While committing the robberies Fleming drew a gun, and wore all black covering his face with a ski mask and goggles, and his hands with gloves, authorities said.
    Mary Ella Hastings July 3, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 4 July 2026
  • Rinse the blueberries under cold running water, gently swishing them around with your hands to ensure all the berries are exposed to water.
    Martha Stewart, Martha Stewart, 3 July 2026
Noun
  • Understand insurance coverage and document belongings If your home is damaged during a hurricane, dealing with insurance can be a pain.
    Faith Wakefield, USA Today, 2 July 2026
  • Fox News Digital previously reported that cruise lines have also been dealing with a similar battle over poolside loungers, as passengers use towels, bags and other belongings to reserve chairs for hours without actually using them.
    Kelly McGreal, FOXNews.com, 1 July 2026
Noun
  • The resort is a quiet one, even during max occupancy at high season.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 1 July 2026
  • Smart buildings powered by integrated AI can dynamically balance energy loads, optimize HVAC systems in real-time based on occupancy sensors, and interface directly with smart grids to reduce peak demand.
    Ali Hoss, Forbes.com, 30 June 2026
Noun
  • Transforming unused outdoor areas creates functional spaces for relaxation and enjoyment.
    Barbara Bellesi Zito, The Spruce, 1 July 2026
  • While enjoyment often leads globally, its source is the work itself, not entertainment.
    Vibhas Ratanjee, Forbes.com, 30 June 2026
Noun
  • Highlight reels are dominated by exceptional athletes doing exceptional things.
    Ian Miller OutKick, FOXNews.com, 1 July 2026
  • Welcome back to Kick It, the AJC’s newsletter for all things World Cup.
    AJ Willingham, AJC.com, 1 July 2026
Noun
  • During the two decades of American occupation, Afghanistan experienced a sort of peace, one in which women could be educated, work as professionals, and even serve in the military.
    Bethanne Patrick, Los Angeles Times, 2 July 2026
  • The study, covering 100 in-demand occupations, reveals that job satisfaction stems not from low stress, but a combination of strong compensation, meaningful work and supportive workplace cultures.
    Bryan Robinson, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026
Noun
  • Addam has a dragon and got to swoop in after all the fighting for the warm and fuzzy stuff.
    Brian Grubb, Vulture, 29 June 2026
  • Tackle one section of a room at a time—a nightstand, dresser, desk, or medicine cabinet—to help give more structure and direction when working in with lots of stuff.
    Nishaa Sharma, The Spruce, 29 June 2026
Noun
  • He is credited as the first and most significant contributor to South Florida archaeology of the time, classifying materials, recording 49 sites across Miami-Dade and making the first outline of a chronology of indigenous habitation.
    Andres Viglucci, Miami Herald, 30 June 2026
  • Combined with Cape Ann’s northeasterly location along the East Coast jutting out into the Atlantic, the lighthouse would have been one of the first signs of human habitation people making the trip from Western Europe to America would have seen.
    Chadd Scott, Forbes.com, 29 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Possession.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/possession. Accessed 6 Jul. 2026.

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