Laxi Dictionary

English Dictionary

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Definition seize in British English

seize verb

[transitive] verb
/siːz/
1

to suddenly and firmly hold someone by a part of their body or clothing

Example

'Listen,' he said, seizing my wrist.

Example

Before he could run away, she seized him by the collar.

Synonyms and related words
carry hold on hang on
1.1

to quickly take something in your hand

Example

Hearing a noise, he seized his gun from the drawer.

Synonyms and related words
carry hold on hang on
2

to take something using official power and force

Example

Customs officials have seized 100 kilos of cocaine.

Example

Action was taken to seize criminal assets valued at $200 million.

Synonyms and related words
go off with seize rob
2.1

to take control of a place or situation using military force

Example

Eastern towns were seized by the rebels two years ago.

Example

The nation's generals seized power in a coup.

Synonyms and related words
invade occupy suppress
2.2

to take something or someone away in an illegal and violent way

Example

Robbers tied up security guards and seized the money.

Synonyms and related words
steal walk off with rob
3

to gain control in a situation

Example

Their opponents had seized control of the army.

Example

You must seize the initiative in discussions about salary.

Synonyms and related words
draw a line in the sand limit control
4

if a feeling or emotion seizes someone, it suddenly affects them very strongly

Example

A wave of panic seized me.

Example

She was seized by agonizing cramps.

Synonyms and related words
come over return run away with
5

if someone is seized by an idea, they are strongly convinced that it is right

Example

The prime minister was very seized by the need to build on everything he was seeing in that stadium.

Definition seize in British English