besitzen
Translation
to possess, to own, to have
Examples
Er besitzt ein großes Haus.
He owns a large house.
Grammar Patterns
((sth.)) to possess sth. He possesses a house.
Similar Words
Synonyms: haben (to have); Antonyms: fehlen (to lack)
Etymology
From the prefix 'be-' (on) and 'sitzen' (to sit). Literally 'to sit on' something, which evolved to mean 'to possess'.
Memory Tips
Imagine you 'be-sit'-ting on your property to claim ownership. This visual can help you remember 'besitzen'.