English Reference
verb · noun · adjective

seizing

v. · n. · adj.
US /ˈsizɪŋ/ UK /sˈiːzɪŋ/ seiz·ing UK spelling seizings

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    v.taking hold of something suddenly or taking control of a place by force.

    v.the act of taking possession of something suddenly, forcibly, or by legal authority.

    Simple

    The soldiers were seizing the radio station to control the news.

    In context

    By seizing the strategic mountain pass, the battalion effectively cut off the enemy's primary supply route for the remainder of the winter.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced Technical Technical

    v.when a machine or part of your body stops moving because of heat or pain.

    v.the process of becoming stuck or jammed, often due to friction, lack of lubrication, or physiological distress.

    Simple

    The engine started seizing because there was no oil left in it.

    In context

    The mechanic warned that the pistons were seizing due to extreme thermal expansion, which would eventually lead to total engine failure.

  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate Formal Law

    n.the act of taking something away, often by the police or government.

    n.the legal or forceful act of taking possession of property or individuals.

    Simple

    The seizing of illegal goods at the border has increased this year.

    In context

    The unlawful seizing of private assets by the state led to a prolonged legal battle in the international courts.

  4. 04 C2 Proficiency Technical

    n.a way of tying two ropes together using a smaller cord.

    n.a method of fastening two ropes or two parts of the same rope together by lashing them with smaller cordage.

    Simple

    The sailor checked the seizing on the mast to ensure it was tight.

    In context

    A proper seizing requires the small stuff to be wound tightly around both ropes to prevent any slippage under heavy tension.

  5. 05 C1 Advanced Literary

    adj.something that is so impressive or strong that it grabs your attention.

    adj.having a striking or impressive quality that commands immediate attention.

    Simple

    The mountain had a seizing beauty that made us stop and look.

    In context

    The orator spoke with a seizing intensity that left the audience in absolute silence for several minutes after he finished.

Two thieves broke into the Renoir Museum in Cagnes-sur-Mer early on Tuesday, seizing four paintings but dropping two of the works in the museum gardens as they escaped, local Mayor Bryan Masson said.

BBC News· 8 Sept 2026

Goïta had promised elections within two years of seizing power, but these have never been held.

BBC News· 13 Aug 2026

From seize + -ing.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated