seizure

[ see-zher ]

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.

seizure

/ 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

seizure

/ 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

Other Words From

• non·seizure noun
• re·seizure noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of seizure¹

First recorded in 1475–85; seize + -ure

Example Sentences

At first, he was uncomfortable with this request but when I explained that I wanted to show what having a seizure was like, he agreed.

From BBC

A woman who was mauled to death by her pet dog may have suffered an epileptic seizure which triggered the attack, an inquest has heard.

From BBC

“This search and seizure are in violation of Mr. Combs’ Fourth, Fifth and Sixth Amendment rights,” his attorneys wrote.

From Los Angeles Times

Eventually, they hope the technique will replace surgery to remove the brain tissue where seizures originate, providing a less invasive option for patients whose symptoms cannot be controlled with medication.

From Science Daily

The DEA has also reported increased seizures of illicit ketamine in recent years at rates far lower than seizures of fentanyl or other far more deadly and prevalent illegal drugs.

From Salon

Related Words

• breakdown
• convulsion
• illness
• stroke