seize
verb (used with object)
to take hold of suddenly or forcibly; grasp.
were seizing
-
past progressiveof seize.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Federal immigration agents were seizing people across the city.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 19, 2026
In July 2023, members of Niger's presidential guard detained President Mohamed Bazoum inside his palace and appeared on national television saying they were seizing power to end the "deteriorating security situation and bad governance."
From Reuters ● Aug. 30, 2023
Mayor Katz was born Vera Pistrak to Russian exiles in Düsseldorf, Germany, on Aug. 3, 1933, just as the Nazis were seizing power.
From Seattle Times ● Dec. 13, 2017
Even before anyone had actually read Mr. Panetta’s latest book, critics were seizing pieces of it to make points.
From New York Times ● Oct. 7, 2014
Harry’s legs were seizing up with the effort to keep swimming; his shoulders were aching horribly with the effort of dragging Ron and the girl.
From "Harry Potter And The Goblet Of Fire" by J. K. Rowling
