to take hold of suddenly or forcibly; grasp

to seize a weapon.

to grasp mentally; understand clearly and completely

to seize an idea.

to take possession of by force or at will

to seize enemy ships.

to take possession or control of as if by suddenly laying hold

Panic seized the crowd.

to take possession of by legal authority; confiscate

to seize smuggled goods.

Also, seise. Law . to put (someone) in seizin or legal possession of property (usually used in passive constructions)

She was seized of vast estates.

to capture; take into custody.

to take advantage of promptly

to seize an opportunity.

Nautical . to bind or fasten together with a seizing.

to grab or take hold suddenly or forcibly (usually fol. by on or upon )

to seize on a rope.

to resort to a method, plan, etc., in desperation (usually fol. by on or upon )

He must seize on a solution, however risky.

to have moving parts bind and stop moving as a result of excessive pressure, temperature, or friction (usually fol. by up )

The engine seized up from cold.