Synonyms of confiscate

confiscate

verb

ˈkän-fə-ˌskāt 

as in to seize

to take ownership or control of (something) by right of one's authority

anything that might be used as a weapon will be confiscated by the security guards

Synonyms & Similar Words

• seize
• attach
• expropriate
• sequester
• usurp
• preempt
• appropriate
• arrogate
• garnishee
• take over
• commandeer

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• render
• yield
• deliver
• relinquish
• forfeit
• surrender
• release
• give up
• turn over
• cede
• hand over

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of confiscate

The European Central Bank and Brussels also fear that confiscating Russia’s reserves would damage the euro’s standing and Belgium’s reputation as a financial safe haven. — Dmytro Kuleba, Foreign Affairs, 30 Sep. 2026

The outlets sued after their reporters were barred from the White House and some journalists had their press passes confiscated by the Secret Service. — Joseph Konig, PEOPLE, 28 Sep. 2026

The filing said a Secret Service agent had confiscated the journalists’ credentials. — Jocelyn Noveck, Chicago Tribune, 24 Sep. 2026

Despite the judge’s order, the Secret Service on Thursday morning refused to admit a Politico reporter to the White House and confiscated the reporter’s press pass, the news outlet reported. — Todd Spangler, Variety, 24 Sep. 2026