besitzen
Translation
to possess, to own, to have
Examples
Ich besitze ein altes Fahrrad.
I own an old bicycle.
Grammar Patterns
((sth.)) to possess sth. I possess 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
Picture yourself 'be-sit'-ting on your possessions to claim them. This helps connect the sound to the meaning of 'besitzen'.