Definition

1. Noun:
   • The act of gripping something firmly with the hands (or tentacles): "Seizing" refers to the action of taking hold of something suddenly and forcefully.
   • Small stuff used for lashing ropes together: In nautical contexts, "seizing" refers to the small cord or line used to bind or fasten ropes together.

Usage and Examples

• Noun (Act of gripping):

  • The seizing of the thief by the police was swift. (This describes the act of the police taking hold of the thief.)
  • The octopus's seizing of the crab was instantaneous. (This describes the act of the octopus gripping the crab with its tentacles.)

• Noun (Nautical lashing material):

  • The sailor used tarred seizing to secure the lines. (This describes the small cord used for binding.)
  • Proper seizing prevents the ropes from slipping apart. (This refers to the material or the act of using it to bind ropes.)

Advanced Usage

• "In the seizing of": At the moment of taking hold.

  • In the seizing of the opportunity, he acted without hesitation. (He acted immediately when the chance arose.)

• Legal/Judicial Context: While not the primary definition here, "seizing" can imply the act of taking possession by legal authority, such as confiscation.

  • The court ordered the seizing of the assets. (The court ordered the taking of the assets.)

Variants and Related Words

• Seize (verb): To take hold of suddenly and forcibly; to take possession of by legal authority.
  • The officer will seize the illegal goods.
• Seizure (noun): The act of seizing; a sudden attack, as in an illness.
  • The seizure of property was controversial.
  • He suffered an epileptic seizure.

Synonyms

• Grasping: Taking and holding firmly.
• Grabbing: Taking something quickly or eagerly.
• Clutching: Grasping or holding tightly.
• Lashing (for the nautical sense): Binding or tying securely.

Related Phrases

• Seize upon/on: To take eager advantage of.
  • He seized upon the idea and developed it further.
• Seize up: To become stuck or jammed, especially of machinery.
  • The engine will seize up without oil.

Noun

1. the act of gripping something firmly with the hands (or the tentacles)
2. small stuff that is used for lashing two or more ropes together