harnessing

VERB

rein in; control

Synonyms

STRONGEST

curb exploit mobilize tackle tame utilize

STRONG

accouter apply bind bridle channel check cinch collar constrain couple domesticate employ equip fasten fetter fit furnish gear govern hitch hold leash limit muzzle outfit rig saddle secure strap tie yoke

WEAK

make productive put in harness render useful

Antonyms

STRONG

allow detach disconnect disjoin free let go liberate loose loosen lose permit release set free unchain unfasten unlock untie

WEAK

unharness

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

In March, Mayor Karen Bass announced a plan to repair and replace up to 60,000 streetlights by harnessing solar power technology, so they’d no longer be reliant on the copper wire that keeps getting stolen.

From Los Angeles Times • May 8, 2026

They mostly gyrate based on how they’re perceived on social media and the skill of company insiders at harnessing that energy.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 22, 2026

A new artificial intelligence agency has been set up in Scotland, aimed at harnessing the potential of the most talked about technology of recent years.

From BBC • Mar. 20, 2026

And as McCartney’s post-Beatles renaissance reveals, harnessing his ambitions has made all the difference.

From Salon • Feb. 27, 2026

Sometimes, if the work horses were to be used that day, Jody found Billy Buck in the barn harnessing and currying.

From "The Red Pony" by John Steinbeck