seized

5 definitions • 7 examples

past simple and past participle of

to take something quickly and keep or hold it:

I seized his arm and made him turn to look at me.

He seized the chance/opportunity of a free flight with both hands (= with eagerness or enthusiasm).

to take using sudden force:

The rebels have seized ten soldiers to use as hostages.

Political instability helped the army to seize power.

Troops yesterday seized control of the broadcasting station.

If the police or other officials seize something, they take possession of it with legal authority:

Customs officers at Heathrow have seized 60 kilos of heroin.

If a strong emotion or pain seizes you, you feel it suddenly:

I was suddenly seized by/with a feeling of great insecurity and loneliness.