own

UK: əʊn | US: oʊn

Definition

  1. adj. belonging to oneself or itself

  2. vt. to possess something legally

  3. vt. to admit or acknowledge something

Structure
ow <possess>ow <possess>
Etymology

The word "own" traces back to Old English āgen, derived from the Proto-Germanic aiganaz, meaning "possessed" or "owned." It shares roots with German eigen and Dutch eigen. Originally an adjective, it later developed into a verb meaning "to possess." The modern sense of "acknowledge" emerged in the 14th century, reflecting psychological ownership.

Examples

  1. She has her own car.

  2. He finally owned his mistakes.

  3. This land is privately owned.

  4. They own a successful business.

  5. I need to own my feelings and move on.