SEIZE

vt to take possession of by force.

2. seize ·vt to fasten; to fix.

3. seize ·vt to fall or rush upon suddenly and lay hold of; to gripe or grasp suddenly; to reach and grasp.

4. seize ·vt to invade suddenly; to take sudden hold of; to come upon suddenly; as, a fever seizes a patient.

5. seize ·vt to bind or fasten together with a lashing of small stuff, as yarn or marline; as, to seize ropes.

6. seize ·vt to grap with the mind; to comprehend fully and distinctly; as, to seize an idea.

7. seize ·vt to take possession of by virtue of a warrant or other legal authority; as, the sheriff seized the debtor's goods.