Find Antonyms
have Antonyms
Opposite of have
Because the opposite of have shifts with each meaning, the 13 antonyms and opposite words below are separated across 4 exact definitions and ranked by contrast strength.
• verb (Context 1)
To possess, own, or hold something as property or as an attribute, quality, or relationship.
Usage Example
"They lack a small cottage by the lake and two friendly dogs."
Strongest
lack
Strong
want
need
lose
forfeit
• verb (Context 2)
To experience, undergo, or be affected by an action, state, emotion, or illness.
Usage Example
"We had a wonderful time exploring the museum yesterday afternoon."
Strong
avoid
escape
miss
• verb (Context 3)
To eat or drink a meal, food, or beverage.
Usage Example
"Let us abstain lunch together at the cafe across the street."
Strong
abstain
fast
forgo
• noun (Context 4)
A person or group that possesses wealth, resources, or material privileges (usually used in the plural and contrasted with 'have-nots').
Usage Example
"The economic report examined the widening gap between the haves and the have-not-nots in modern society."
Strongest
have-not
Strong
pauper
Similar words to have
Words similar to have shift depending on context. Common synonyms include:
possess
own
experience
must
consume
undergo
eat
drink
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Antonyms for Have. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/antonyms/have