Seizure

Pronunciation

• Rhymes: -iːʒə(r)

Origin

seize + -ure

Full definition of seizure

Noun

1. The act of taking possession, as by force or right of law.the seizure of a thief, a property, a throne, etc.The search warrant permitted the seizure of evidence.
• 1874, Marcus Clarke, For the Term of His Natural Life Chapter VIIAs yet there had been no alarm of fever. The three seizures had excited some comment, however, and had it not been for the counter-excitement of the burning ship, it is possible that Pine's precaution would have been thrown away
2. A sudden attack or convulsion, (e.g. an epileptic seizure).He fell to the floor and convulsed when the epilectic seizure occurred.
3. A sudden onset of pain or emotion.He felt the sudden seizure of pain as the heart attack began.
4. (obsolete) retention within one's grasp or power; possession; ownership
• DrydenMake o'er thy honour by a deed of trust,
  And give me seizure of the mighty wealth.
5. That which is seized, or taken possession of; a thing laid hold of, or possessed.