Seize

/siːz/

Meaning & Definition

verb

To capture or constrain someone or something.

The police were able to seize the suspect after a brief chase.

To take hold of suddenly and forcibly.

The thief tried to seize the woman's handbag.

To take possession of something quickly and forcefully.

The government decided to seize the illegal assets of the crime syndicate.

To grasp or understand something mentally or emotionally.

She was able to seize the opportunity presented to her at the conference.

Middle English 'seisen', from Old French 'seoir' meaning to hold.

seize the day

Take advantage of the present moment.

seize an opportunity

Take advantage of a chance or situation.

seize control

Gain authority or dominance over something.

capture

To take someone or something into one's possession.

apprehend

To arrest or seize someone.

grab

To seize suddenly or quickly.

To take advantage of something.

You gotta seize that moment, man!

To take something quickly, sometimes without permission.

He seized my fries when I wasn't looking!