seize: Meaning and Definition of

seize

1. to take hold of suddenly or forcibly; grasp: to seize a weapon.
2. to grasp mentally; understand clearly and completely: to seize an idea.
3. to take possession of by force or at will: to seize enemy ships.
4. to take possession or control of as if by suddenly laying hold: Panic seized the crowd.
5. to take possession of by legal authority; confiscate: to seize smuggled goods.
6. to put (someone) in seizin or legal possession of property (usually used in passive constructions): She was seized of vast estates.
7. to capture; take into custody.
8. to take advantage of promptly: to seize an opportunity.
9. to bind or fasten together with a seizing.

1. to grab or take hold suddenly or forcibly (usually fol. by on or upon): to seize on a rope.
2. to resort to a method, plan, etc., in desperation (usually fol. by on or upon): He must seize on a solution, however risky.
3. to have moving parts bind and stop moving as a result of excessive pressure, temperature, or friction (usually fol. by up): The engine seized up from cold.