Definition of: seize

(sēz) v. seized, seiz·ing v.t.
1. To take hold of suddenly and forcibly; clutch; grasp.
2. To grasp mentally; comprehend; understand.
3. To take possession of by authority or right.
4. To take possession of by or as by force: The usurper seized the throne.
5. To take prisoner; capture; arrest.
6. To act upon with sudden and powerful effect; attack; strike: Terror seized the attackers and they fled.
7. To take advantage of immediately, as an opportunity.
8. Law To put into legal possession: usually spelled seise.
9. Naut. To fasten or bind by turns of cord, line, or small rope; lash.
—v.i.
10. To take a sudden or forcible hold. See synonyms under ARREST, CATCH, GRASP. [<OF saisir, seisir <Med. L (ad propriam) sacire take (into one's own possession), prob. <Gmc.]
—seiz′a·ble adjective