its
0 synonyms and 0 antonyms for its, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Det — Belonging to it.
We haven't recorded synonyms for its yet. You can still read its full definition, where it comes from, or words that rhyme with it.
Etymology
Formed in the 1500s–1600s as a new possessive form of "it" — Old English originally used "his" instead.
Full origin of its →Frequently asked questions
What does “its” mean?
The word “its” means belonging to it. In plain terms, belonging to it — don't confuse with "it's" (it is).
How do you pronounce “its”?
“Its” is pronounced ihts (/ɪʔ.s/ in IPA).
How do you use “its” in a sentence?
Here is “its” used in a sentence: “The dog wagged its tail.”
What part of speech is “its”?
“Its” is a det.
Where does the word “its” come from?
The word “its” dates back to around 1500 and comes from Old English. Formed in the 1500s–1600s as a new possessive form of "it" — Old English originally used "his" instead.
Is “its” a common word?
“Its” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A1 level.
What is the difference between its and it's?
"Its" (no apostrophe) is the possessive, meaning belonging to it ("the dog wagged its tail"). "It's" (with an apostrophe) is only ever the contraction of "it is" or "it has" ("it's raining," "it's been ages"). If you can replace the word with "it is," you need the apostrophe.
Why doesn't its have an apostrophe?
Possessive pronouns and determiners in English — his, hers, ours, yours, theirs, its — never take apostrophes. The apostrophe in "it's" marks the missing letters of "it is," not possession, which is why the possessive form is "its" with no apostrophe.
Is "its'" ever correct?
No. "Its'" with an apostrophe after the s is never a correct English word. The only two forms are "its" (possessive) and "it's" (short for "it is" or "it has").
Can its refer to a baby or an animal?
Yes, though usage varies. "Its" is normal for animals of unknown sex ("the bird built its nest") and is grammatically possible for a baby, but many people find it impersonal and prefer "his," "her," or "their" once the child is known.