What does seize mean?
Seize means to take hold of something quickly and firmly, or to take possession of it in a forceful or officially authorized way. It can describe grabbing a physical object, arresting a person, confiscating property, taking control of an organization, or acting promptly to benefit from an opportunity. For example, someone may seize a handle, seize control of a meeting, or seize an opening for business. The word often carries a sense of urgency and determination. In legal contexts, it is especially associated with the seizure of goods, assets, or evidence. Although it is broadly used in formal and informal English, its stronger, more dramatic tone makes it especially effective in descriptions of dramatic arrests, decisive action, and moments that should not be missed.
To take hold of something suddenly, firmly, or with determined effort.
"The climber seized the ledge and held on."
Often describes a quick or forceful grasp.
To arrest or capture someone, or to take possession of property by legal authority.
"Authorities seized the records as part of the investigation."
The legal senses are especially common in formal and official contexts.
To take control of something, or to act quickly in order to make use of an opportunity.
"The new director seized control of the department and introduced major changes."
Often implies decisiveness and urgency.
From battlefield capture to dramatic arrests, 'seize' has long conveyed the sudden, forceful taking of control.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does seize come from?
The English verb comes through Anglo-French seiser, ultimately from Latin sēsīre, meaning “to take, seize, or occupy.” The word entered Middle English with senses connected both with taking hold physically and with taking possession legally. Related forms such as seizure and seizable developed from the same English verb. The form is related to the French saisir and cognates found in other Romance languages.
Related word forms
How seize is actually used
The word is generally formal but widely used. It often suggests promptness, force, or decisiveness; in legal and financial contexts, it commonly refers to confiscation or taking possession.
Easily confused with seize
Seize means to take hold of or capture something, whereas a siege is a prolonged attempt to surround and capture a place or position.
Seize is the standard spelling of the verb; 'sease' is a rare or obsolete variant and should not be used in modern English.