seizure

American  

[see-zher] / ˈsi ʒər /

noun

1. the act or an instance of seizing. seizing.

2. the state of being seized.

3. a taking possession of an item, property, or person legally or by force.

4. a sudden attack, as of epilepsy or some other disease.

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seizure British  

/ ˈsiːʒə /

noun

1. the act or an instance of seizing or the state of being seized

2. pathol a sudden manifestation or recurrence of a disease, such as an epileptic convulsion

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seizure Scientific  

/ sē′zhər /

1. A sudden episode of transient neurologic symptoms such as involuntary muscle movements, sensory disturbances and altered consciousness. A seizure is caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain, which is often diagnosed on an electroencephalogram.

2. See also epilepsy

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Other Word Forms

• nonseizure noun
• reseizure noun

Etymology

Origin of seizure

First recorded in 1475–85; seize + -ure

Example Sentences

They argued the seizure was therefore "heavily aggravated by the circumstances and appears to have had a doubtful or improper motive".

From BBC

The raid, it said, "did not result in any arrests or seizures".

From Barron's

Federal officials have not explained the specific reasoning for the highly unusual seizures, with an affidavit used to obtain a search warrant remaining under seal.

From Barron's

According to Dr. Flaherty, seizures, mania and traumatic events can enhance a person’s emotional drive and search for meaning.

From The Wall Street Journal

The seizure violated the man’s right to free speech, the firm alleges.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• breakdown
• convulsion
• illness
• stroke