seizures
|seiz-ures|
🇺🇸
/ˈsiːʒɚz/
🇬🇧
/ˈsiːʒəz/
(seizure)
sudden attack or capture
Etymology
'seizure' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'seisir' (later French 'saisir'), where the root meant 'to take, to grasp'.
'seizure' developed in Middle English from Old French 'seisir' (Middle English forms like 'seisure' and 'seisour' are attested) and eventually became the modern English word 'seizure' by analogy with the verb 'seize'.
Initially, it meant 'the act of taking or grasping'; over time the word's usage broadened to include 'confiscation' by authorities and a figurative/medical sense of a sudden 'attack' or 'fit'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a sudden attack of illness, especially one caused by epilepsy or another neurological disorder; a convulsive episode.
He has frequent seizures that require medication.
Synonyms
Noun 2
the act of taking possession of property or goods by authority; confiscation or impoundment.
Customs officers reported several seizures of counterfeit goods last month.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Noun 3
the act or instance of taking control of something suddenly or forcibly; capture or occupation.
The rebels carried out rapid seizures of several border posts.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/12/26 20:07