Seizure: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used in a medical or legal context. It can refer to a sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbance in the brain or the act of taking possession of something by force or legal process.

• The patient suffered a seizure and was rushed to the hospital.
• The police conducted a seizure of the illegal narcotics.

Informal term for a sudden attack or convulsion, or a sudden burst of emotion. It can also be used colloquially to describe something or someone that is suitable or appropriate.

• His laughing fit lasted for several minutes.
• She had a fit of anger when she found out the news.
• The suit is a perfect fit for him.

Refers specifically to involuntary muscle contractions and spasms, often seen in certain medical conditions.

• The child experienced severe convulsions after getting a high fever.
• Epileptic convulsions can be very frightening to witness.

Used to describe a sudden onset of symptoms or an aggressive action, often in a violent or military context.

• He had a heart attack while jogging.
• The town was under attack from enemy forces.

Typically used to describe the act of taking control of something, often by legal or authoritative means. It is common in legal contexts and can also refer to medical conditions where sudden episodes occur.

• The police made a seizure of illegal drugs.
• She had a seizure due to her epilepsy.

Commonly applied in legal or authoritative contexts where property or items are taken away, usually as a form of punishment or enforcement. It has a more negative connotation.

• The confiscation of his assets was due to tax evasion.
• Students fear the confiscation of their phones during exams.

Used when taking or allocating something, often funds or resources, for a specific purpose. It carries a more neutral tone and can sometimes have artistic or cultural contexts.

• The government's appropriation of funds for education was well-received.
• Her work deals with the appropriation of different cultural symbols.

This word is used when something or someone is taken by force or strategy, often in military or competitive settings. It can also refer to the act of catcing or recording something.

• The soldiers managed the capture of the enemy base.
• The photograph perfectly captured the moment.