Definition of seize

• v. t. - To fall or rush upon suddenly and lay hold of; to gripe or grasp suddenly; to reach and grasp.
• v. t. - To take possession of by force.
• v. t. - To invade suddenly; to take sudden hold of; to come upon suddenly; as, a fever seizes a patient.
• v. t. - To take possession of by virtue of a warrant or other legal authority; as, the sheriff seized the debtor's goods.
• v. t. - To fasten; to fix.
• v. t. - To grap with the mind; to comprehend fully and distinctly; as, to seize an idea.
• v. t. - To bind or fasten together with a lashing of small stuff, as yarn or marline; as, to seize ropes.