own

verb

Definition of ownnext
as in to have
to keep, control, or experience as one's own we own a modest house and an equally modest car

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb own contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of own are acknowledge, admit, avow, and confess. While all these words mean "to disclose against one's will or inclination," own implies acknowledging something in close relation to oneself.

must own I know little about computers

When can acknowledge be used instead of own?

Although the words acknowledge and own have much in common, acknowledge implies the disclosing of something that has been or might be concealed.

acknowledged an earlier peccadillo

When is it sensible to use admit instead of own?

While in some cases nearly identical to own, admit implies reluctance to disclose, grant, or concede and refers usually to facts rather than their implications.

admitted the project was over budget

Where would avow be a reasonable alternative to own?

The synonyms avow and own are sometimes interchangeable, but avow implies boldly declaring, often in the face of hostility, what one might be expected to be silent about.

avowed that he was a revolutionary

In what contexts can confess take the place of own?

In some situations, the words confess and own are roughly equivalent. However, confess may apply to an admission of a weakness, failure, omission, or guilt.

confessed a weakness for sweets

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 own After stepping back from their royal duties in 2020, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex briefly resided in both of those locales as well, before settling at their current Californian estate—the only home that either have ever owned. —Katie Schultz, Architectural Digest, 27 Mar. 2025 In fact, most are opposed to owning a Tesla — and for many of them, Musk is to blame. —Brendan Rascius, Miami Herald, 27 Mar. 2025 Wilson currently owns and lives in a Lincoln Park mansion. —Bob Goldsborough, Chicago Tribune, 15 Mar. 2025 Supporting independent bookstores, especially pouring extra love into those owned and operated by BIPOC. —Janice Gassam Asare, Forbes, 15 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for own
Recent Examples of Synonyms for own
  1. have
  2. possess
  3. retain
  4. enjoy
Verb
  • Roadside Attractions, Lionsgate and independent studio LD Entertainment are circling domestic rights, though a deal has yet to close.
    — Rebecca Rubin, Variety, 24 Mar. 2025
  • Zella Convertible Belt Bag This $22 option has the classic belt bag silhouette that looks natural with athleisure and travel outfits.
    — Clint Davis, People.com, 23 Mar. 2025
Definition of have
Verb
  • Those under age 21 caught using or possessing marijuana would be guilty of a violation.
    — A.J. Herrington, Forbes.com, 1 Apr. 2025
  • Jurors also convicted him of three counts of gun possession, including possessing an assault weapon, court records show.
    — Nate Gartrell, Mercury News, 1 Apr. 2025
Definition of possess
Verb
  • When Lampard was sacked 18 months later, replacement Tuchel insisted that Barry be retained after hearing about his work.
    — Simon Hughes, The Athletic, 23 Mar. 2025
  • Lower yields give more concentration, while the higher elevation, averaging around 500 feet, retains high acidity.
    — Cathrine Todd, Forbes, 23 Mar. 2025
Definition of retain
Verb
  • Visa Infinite cardholders in Singapore enjoy golf discounts at Sentosa Golf Club and Tanah Merah Country Club on weekdays, excluding public holidays.
    — Lim Hui Jie, CNBC, 28 Mar. 2025
  • Located on the southern side of Kauai, beachgoers at Poipu enjoy snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, as well as boogie boarding, surfing and wading in the ocean.
    — Brittany Anas, Forbes.com, 28 Mar. 2025
Definition of enjoy

Phrases Containing own

Browse Nearby Words

owing to
own
owned
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Cite this Entry

“Own.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/own. Accessed 4 Apr. 2025.

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