seize

Definition of seizenext
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Synonym Chooser

How is the word seize different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of seize are clutch, grab, grasp, snatch, and take. While all these words mean "to get hold of by or as if by catching up with the hand," seize implies a sudden and forcible movement in getting hold of something tangible or an apprehending of something fleeting or elusive when intangible.

seized the suspect

When might clutch be a better fit than seize?

While the synonyms clutch and seize are close in meaning, clutch suggests avidity or anxiety in seizing or grasping and may imply less success in holding.

clutching her purse

How are the words grab and snatch related as synonyms of seize?

Grab implies more roughness or rudeness than snatch.

grabbed roughly by the arm

When is it sensible to use grasp instead of seize?

The words grasp and seize are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, grasp stresses a laying hold so as to have firmly in possession.

grasp the handle and pull

How do snatch and seize relate to one another?

Snatch suggests more suddenness or quickness but less force than seize.

snatched a doughnut and ran

When could take be used to replace seize?

The words take and seize can be used in similar contexts, but take is a general term applicable to any manner of getting something into one's possession or control.

take some salad from the bowl

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of seize Jordan, on the gurney, seizing and rolling onto his side. Emily Brindley health Reporter, Dallas Morning News, 19 Mar. 2026 Deputies seized thousands of dollars in cash, which was later returned, but Afroman said about $400 was never recovered. Bebe Hodges, Cincinnati Enquirer, 19 Mar. 2026 The government seized computers and phones while listing Hybrida Farms leaders in documents filed as part of the raid. Paul Flahive, Austin American Statesman, 18 Mar. 2026 Also, Alex Steeves and Mikey Eyssimont have been alternating in the lineup, though neither player has seized the spot for his own yet. Steve Conroy, Boston Herald, 18 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for seize
Recent Examples of Synonyms for seize
Verb
  • According to IntBot, the robot represents a broader shift toward socially intelligent robots capable of understanding human intent and operating autonomously in real-world environments such as airports, hospitals, and public buildings.
    Atharva Gosavi, Interesting Engineering, 25 Mar. 2026
  • For them as well as for their families, an easy-to-understand safety feature like an airbag will give them peace of mind as well.
    New Atlas, New Atlas, 24 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • The owners who were arrested were charged with felonies; however, Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg later dismissed the case due to conflicts of interest.
    Marley Malenfant, Austin American Statesman, 20 Mar. 2026
  • Laura, a piano student from Berlin, played with arresting ambivalence by Paula Beer, narrowly survives a car wreck that kills her boyfriend.
    Holden Seidlitz, New Yorker, 20 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • For an affordable meal, grab a cheap lunch at a konoba — a Croatian tavern — tucked away from the main tourist drag.
    Lauren Schuster, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 23 Mar. 2026
  • Kuechly was called for two defensive fouls as NFL players had trouble grabbing flags.
    Jim Reineking, USA Today, 23 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • Police officers also damaged photographic equipment and confiscated memory cards from journalists who were outside the Lion’s Gate of the Old City covering Ramadan prayers.
    Oren Liebermann, CNN Money, 21 Mar. 2026
  • At the same time, CBP reported a surge in drug seizures after agents confiscating more than 79,000 pounds of narcotics nationwide last month, the highest monthly total since October 2021.
    Greg Wehner, FOXNews.com, 20 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • He’s known as someone who could raise the tide of an entire defense based on his football IQ and his propensity for getting his teammates properly aligned.
    Joseph Hoyt, Dallas Morning News, 20 Mar. 2026
  • And as importantly, nobody knows how the political reality will push the actual oil supply.
    Tiana Lowe Doescher, The Washington Examiner, 20 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • Security appeared to quickly apprehend the man and escorted him away as sombr returned to the mic and completed the performance.
    Gil Kaufman, Billboard, 18 Mar. 2026
  • Even before the positive results are in, Matteo turns out to be a chip off the old block by joining McGee in apprehending the kidnapper, a vengeful TURF staff cook.
    Bryan Alexander, USA Today, 18 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • From the kitchen, guests can catch glimpses of Hatch Cove, and in the afternoon, enjoy cocktails on the large backyard deck that overlooks original stone walls and towering trees.
    Nicole Kliest, Vogue, 19 Mar. 2026
  • Right now, some of the best spots to catch beautiful bluebonnet displays are around Brenham, Ennis, and the Hill Country.
    Newsroom Meteorologist, Austin American Statesman, 19 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • Shortly thereafter, VanSlooten stole the ball and drove the length of the court for a layup that made it 54-51.
    CBS News, CBS News, 21 Mar. 2026
  • Amedee makes a diving stop at first to steal a hit away from Cotton.
    Caleb Yum, Austin American Statesman, 20 Mar. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Seize.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/seize. Accessed 25 Mar. 2026.

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