seize up Definition

seize
verb seized, seizing

1. To take or grab suddenly, eagerly or forcibly.

Thesaurus: grasp, take, lay hold of, grip, catch, clinch, clasp, embrace, grab, snatch; Antonym: leave, let alone.
2. To take by force; to capture.

Thesaurus: occupy, conquer, subdue, overwhelm, overrun, annex, appropriate, confiscate; capture, apprehend, abduct, nab.
3. To affect suddenly and deeply; to overcome.

Example: He was seized by panic
4. To take legal possession of someone or something.
5. naut.
To lash or make fast.
6. To use or exploit it eagerly.

Example: She seized on the idea as soon as it was suggested
Example: They seized every chance to embarrass us
Form: seize on something (often)
Form: seize upon something

Derivative: seizable
adj

Etymology: 13c: from French saisir.

Phrasal Verb: seize up

Said of a machine or engine: to become stiff or jammed, especially through overuse or lack of lubrication;Said of part of the body: to become stiff through over-exertion.Said of a person: to become overwhelmed eg with nerves, fear, etc.
Example: As soon as I saw him I just seized up